Despite a lengthy debate lasting late into the evening, there is still no Shoalhaven Council decision on the proposed rate increase application to go before IPART.
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Hundreds of residents turned out to oppose the rate increase during a fiery meeting.
Mayor Amanda Findley at one stage shut down the meeting for 15 minutes as angry ratepayers interjected as Councillors spoke for and against the proposed rate increase.
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The proposed 44 per cent increase put forward by council staff was voted down, a second option for a 28 per cent rise with council belt tightening also failed to get up.
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The issue will be back before an extraordinary council meeting tonight (Tues 30 January 2024).