Northern Beaches Council Faces Backlash Over 40% Rate Hike Approval

Residents and former councillors criticize the decision, citing lack of representation and financial mismanagement.

Northern Beaches Council narrowly approved a 39.6% rate increase by a single vote during a contentious meeting attended by 200 protesters.
Critics argue the council ignored a $173,000 resident survey, where only 11% supported the hike, and 51% favored a smaller 10.7% increase.
Former Liberal councillors blame the party's failure to nominate candidates in the last election for the lack of representation and oversight in the council.
Concerns have been raised about the council's financial management, with claims of a $544,000 CEO salary and a $159 million annual wage bill for staff.
The rate hike proposal will now be reviewed by the Independent Pricing and Regulatory Tribunal, with a decision expected in May.