This significant development is part of Council's initiative to connect Fisherman Bay residents to a new wastewater collection system, a key component of the Fisherman Bay Freeholding Project.
To finance the plumbing connection project, Council intends to borrow up to $850,000 from the Local Government Finance Authority. The comprehensive cost of the project, which includes plumbing services, Council's administrative expenses, and interest, will be recouped through a Separate Rate. The application of separate rates are a transparent and equitable means used by councils across South Australia to generate revenue to deliver projects and activities of particular benefit to target areas.
Plumbing work is slated to begin in April 2024, with the goal of completing up to 15 connections each week. The quotes from H2H Plumbing range from $1,831 to $8,516 per property, averaging at $4,600, excluding GST.
In an effort to reduce costs for residents, Barunga West Council will apply a reduced administration fee of $180 per connection, down from the usual $305. This reduction is made possible by streamlining processes using one main contractor.
The cost per property, inclusive of plumbing, interest, and administrative fees, will be charged to residents as a Quarterly Separate Rate over 16 quarters. Additionally, each ratepayer is required to contribute $2,535 for connecting the sewer system to the Port Broughton Wastewater Treatment system.
Barunga West Council CEO Maree Wauchope said this project not only aims to streamline the plumber selection process for ratepayers but also offers flexibility in choosing either the Council-affiliated plumber or an independent one.
“The initiative is expected to standardise plumbing work quality, expedite connections to the new wastewater system, and reduce the overall financial impact on the ratepayers by allowing the spreading of costs over several quarters,” Ms Wauchope said.
“The timely execution of these connections is crucial in reducing the health and environmental impacts of non-compliant wastewater systems.”