RATE HIKE ON THE WAY FOR PORT STEPHENS RESIDENTS

Port Stephens residents are in for a rate hike, with the council presenting four different funding models.

The options range from a 2.5 per cent increase, through to 8.5 per cent – per annum – for seven years.

According to Mayor Ryan Palmer, the base increase would allow the council to maintain current services, while the highest would give it the power to tackle transformative projects.

Community information sessions will be held over the coming weeks.