Ellesmere rates to go up 10 p. c.

Press, Volume CXIV, Issue 33539, 21 May 1974, Page 14

Ellesmere rates to go up 10 p. c.

An. average increase in the county general rate of 10 per cent was proposed when the Ellesmere County Council considered its estimates yesterday. The rates will vary, according to new valuations.

“That is not too bad these days,” said the financial committee chairman (Cr H. G. Stephens). "We can’t afford to go nearer the bone, and perhaps it is a good time to make an increase.” He gave notice of intention to strike a general rate of 0.254 of a cent in the dollar on the capital value. A rate of 0.386 c was recommended for the Leeston and Southbridge county towns, the Leeston rate being up 3 per cent and the Southbridge rate up about 14 per cent. The county estimates provide for expenditure of $327,082, compared with $314,356 spent last year. Expenditure of $111,067, compared with $111,219 last year, was proposed for county roads and streets. Cr Stephens gave a long list of increases, reflecting higher wages and fuel costs. Motor sport. — Permission was given to the Ellesmere Stockrod and Dirt Bike Association to hold meetings oh a paddock at Killinchy until October 31. Cr W. F. Reese said the council should consider the residents, who had had a good deal to put up with. Hall funds. — Residents were asked for funds to enable the Southbridge hall to be brought up to health and fire standards.

District nurse.— The council made a grant of $lOO to enable a district nursing scheme to be started.

Subdivision.— A plan for a 10-section subdivision by Mr R. Wylie at Southbridge was approved. Fire engine.—The approval of the Fire Services Council was sought to buy a new fire engine for the Leston Volunteer Fire Brigade. Notice was given to raise a loan of $13,000 to pay for the machine.