More than 90 per cent of affected St Albans businesses have objected to a Brimbank council special rate designed to promote and improve trade in the CBD.
A council report reveals up to $40,000 will be set aside for a part-time co-ordinator to oversee the marketing and business development rate, which begins on January 1.
A total of 105 of the 115 submissions to the council opposed the scheme, with many calling for the $112,935 expected to be raised in its first year to be used for free parking spaces.
The rate, which was rubber-stamped by the council last week, will cost businesses – depending on land value – between $100 and $6576 in the first year of its five-year term.
In submissions to the council, many traders argued they could not afford the rate and were unlikely to receive any benefit.
Others said they held month-by-month tenancies, council rates should cover the cost proposed, and that a similar scheme had failed.
The Weekly spoke to several business owners who knew nothing about the plan, which was supported by the St Albans Business Group Association.
“All marketing and business activities will be held in Alfrieda Street and Main Road East,” one submission stated. “No indication has been made to explain how any form of marketing will benefit businesses in other locations.”
A council report said the rate was expected to raise $587,718 over the five years. “Other issues, including car parking, traffic congestion … are considered important issues, however separate to … the scheme,” the report said.
The council said it was investigating the creation of parking space on council land in Collins Street.
