Rates and charges pay for a whole range of facilities and services in Wollongong, and for one lucky Balgownie couple, paying their rates has also put them behind the wheel of a brand new car.

More than 9000 ratepayers who paid their rates and charges up front before 31 August this year went into the draw to win a new car or a $1500 travel voucher from Wollongong City Council.

Mr and Mrs Maling were this year’s lucky winners, and will drive away in their brand new Ford Fiesta today, Thursday, 4 November 2010.

General Manager David Farmer said Council holds a rates incentive program each year to encourage residents to pay their rates up front to help generate extra income for the city.

“As well as going in the draw to win great prizes, the extra income generated through interest can help pay for services, facilities and infrastructure for the community,” David Farmer said. 

“We understand not everyone can afford to pay their rates up front, but we are noticing the scheme is encouraging more people to consider it as an option to help the city create extra interest and go into the draw to win a new car.”

“Rates make up 55 percent of Council’s income and help us look after local beaches, parks, playgrounds and sports fields, collect waste, maintain our roads, manage planning applications and run our libraries, community centres and many other programs.”

“This year Council is again putting a priority on repairing and renewing roads, buildings, footpaths, parks and basic community infrastructure. Locals will see their rates dollar being spent across the city on pothole repairs, footpath and cycleway upgrades, road resurfacing, playground upgrades and much needed improvements to public buildings and parks.”

“Council is also spending your rates on major projects for the city, including upgrades to the Blue Mile and Crown Street Mall, new access roads in West Dapto, a new Warrawong library and improved waste facilities in Kembla Grange,’ Mr Farmer added.