There is an update to this story here
About 200 protestors have come out in wild rainy weather and hail to protest a proposed rate rise being voted on by Northern Beaches Council this evening. We update this article once the vote has been determined.
Council chambers is standing room only, with many holding placards against big rate hikes.
Council has been recommended to vote for a 39.6% increase, but the elected council are yet to vote. This vote should occur over the next few hours.
Council staff make the recommendation to ensure long-term financial sustainability. However speakers have been appealing to councillors not to vote for such high increases.
“Is staff driving Council or is Council driving staff?”
“I can not afford my rate rise, I am paying in installments,” said resident speaker Mark Horton. “Is staff driving Council or is Council driving staff?”
