As soon as I mention capping rates, people jump to the conclusion that something must get cut. But there’s plenty of wasteful spending. Honestly, it’s like taking candy from a baby when you look.

Take this: I just got a notification that my pool fence is being checked again something Council does every three years. The cost works out to $88 every year on my rates or $264 for each inspection visit.

To put that in perspective, some pools cost as little as $350 to buy (plus fencing of course). Yet Council charges $264 just to look at a fence, tick a box, and file the paperwork for owners who are already compliant.

So, is this really about safety, or just a money grab from pool owners?

Surely there’s a smarter way. Once a pool fence is permitted and on file, the owner could simply confirm with a photo by email that nothing has changed. If there’s a problem or non-compliance, then a site visit could be charged to that property owner.

Responsible owners shouldn’t have to fund unnecessary bureaucracy. Council could cut this cost and cut rates accordingly.

Steve Gibson

Mayoral Candidate.