Port Stephens Mayor Ryan Palmer says community feedback has raised questions on affordability and concerns, as well as plenty of support for the idea.

“As Council, proposing to increase rates is not something we take lightly. We know how this will affect our communities and the financial impacts that some will feel. We also hear loud and clear that our community wants more.

“We have extended the consultation period to the end of August to allow more of the community to attend information sessions and to provide submissions on the proposed options. We’re also about to start a telephone survey across Port Stephens – conducted by Micromex Research and Consulting – to seek further feedback from the community.

“We’re talking about more facilities for all to enjoy, better services, safer roads and town centres people want to visit. Our residents want projects that invest in our local communities – like $36m to revitalise town centres, $56m to improve our road network, $16m on better drainage and $9.5m in sport and recreation facilities to name a few.

“What we’re proposing is to plan a better future for Port Stephens – to invigorate the whole of our area. I strongly encourage all in our community to have their say and provide a submission,” Mayor Palmer said.

Have your say

• Visit https://haveyoursay.portstephens.nsw.gov.au/srv
• Email srv@portstephens.nsw.gov.au quoting PSC 2018-02118
• Write PSC 2018-02118, General Manager Port Stephens Council, PO Box 42, RAYMOND TERRACE, NSW 2324

You may be contacted to take part in a telephone survey, conducted by Micromex Research and Consulting.