By Tate Papworth
Brimbank council will renew the St Albans Town Centre Special Rate Scheme.
The scheme was introduced in 2014 to help fund a program of business-led activities and initiatives encouraging commerce, retail and employment opportunities in the St Albans town centre.
At its July meeting, the council decided to continue the scheme for a further five and a half years and expects it to raise more than $700,000.
Brimbank mayor Margaret Giudice said the renewal was an important way to support the economic development of the St Albans town centre.
“St Albans is a vibrant and multicultural centre of which we’re very proud, with a thriving business mix,” she said.
“The special rate will continue to make possible an ongoing program of marketing, promotions and business development initiatives to help improve the commercial viability of the town centre.”
She said the scheme had reaped benefits for St Albans since being introduced.
“This activity included significant events like the St Albans Lunar Festival, Moon Lantern Festival, and participation in the Melbourne Food and Wine Festival, which draw tens of thousands of people to the town centre.”
