BRIMBANK Council is proposing to raise rates by 4.5 per cent for residential properties and 4.9 per cent for commercial and industrial properties and vacant land.
But a number of properties will receive a rate rise of more than 4.5 per cent due to increasing property values.
According to the council’s draft budget, property values have increased most significantly in Cairnlea, Derrimut, Kealba, Keilor Lodge, Keilor Park, StAlbans and Taylors Lakes.
A house valued at the Brimbank average price of $340,000 will receive a rates bill of $1167.69.
Ratepayers will also have to pay an environmental charge which incorporates the cost for weekly rubbish and fortnightly recycling collections.
This year’s charge has been affected by a landfill levy and the incoming carbon tax.
In 2012-13, a 140-litre garbage bin will cost $237.51 and a 240-litre bin will cost $462.20.
The council is offering residents the chance to downsize to an 80-litre bin, which will cost $204.73, to reduce the environmental charge.
The council has also proposed the introduction of a differential rate for gaming venues to fund programs helping problem gamblers.
The rate will be twice that of commercial and industrial properties.
Twelve gaming venues, including those of Green Gully Soccer Club in Keilor Downs and St Albans Sports Club, will be hit by increased charges.
