As we near March 15, Changeover Day is just around the corner and we all join in the final countdown to becoming one great Regional Council for our one great region.
The Rockhampton Regional Council will become the new Local Government Authority for our region after local government elections on March 15, 2008.
After Changeover Day, all the existing services and activities previously available to you will continue with little or no immediate change.
Here are the answers to your most frequently asked questions on the new Regional Council.
How will I know which office to ring?
All existing phone numbers from the four Councils will remain during transition. You may also call 1300 22 55 77 to be diverted to the nearest Council office during business hours.
Where will the new Council be based?
Existing Council buildings will remain as a part of the new Regional Council for operations and customer service. To facilitate records management and other legislative requirements however, the City Hall in Rockhampton will be the official public office.
Will Council Fees and Charges change?
Initially Council fees and charges will remain the same as per existing Council fees and charges, and will apply to existing boundaries after changeover day. The new Regional Council will review these fees and charges early on in the life of the new Council.
What is going to happen to my Rates?
As with the current system, your rates will be adjusted yearly by the Council in office. For March 15, 2008 the current rates will remain, and may be reviewed by the next elected Council for the next financial year.
When will I receive my next Rates Notice?
Regional Council Rates Notices will be issued after the end of the 2007/2008 financial year. Water Rates will continue to be issued as per their existing schedule and will be forwarded soon thereafter.
Will I still be able to pay my Rates the same way I used to?
All existing payment methods will initially continue into the new Regional Council. Additional payment options which may not have been available to some Councils previously will also be available (such as Australia Post Billpay). On receipt of your first Regional Council Rates Notice, key payment options will be clearly identified.
Will I be able to pay my rates at any Council Office?
Yes. You will be able to pay your rates and all fees and charges at any office where a payment and receipting facility was previously offered.
Will I be able to use any Council landfill site or waste transfer station?
Yes. You will be eligible to use any Council landfill site or waste transfer station as per existing conditions of use.
Will I be able to use my existing Council landfill vouchers?
Yes. Existing vouchers will remain current until August 2008 and can be used at any Council Landfill site.
Will I be able to access all Council Library Services within the Region?
Yes, after March 15, 2008, all Council library services will be available to all residents as per existing library conditions of membership. Some systems will still need to be integrated after Changeover Day; however this should have minimal impact on library use.
Until March 15, should you have a Council enquiry, please contact your existing local Council.
For up to date and detailed information regarding the Regional Council, amalgamation or transition, please contact the LTC Office on 4936 8555.