Strabane rate rises by almost 4%
Rates are to rise in Strabane by almost 4%.
Councillors struck the district rate of 3.93% at a council meeting on Monday.
It represents an annual increase of just over £19 for the average residential ratepayer.
The council's chairperson, Sinn Fein's Brian McMahon, said the rise reflects the council's commitment to investment in community, leisure and recycling facilities.
"Over the next four years the council has given priority to developing modern leisure facilities and a recycling centre and depot that will support our ongoing effort to manage our district's waste."
But he also said rates could be reduced if ratepayers recycled more.
"Recent analysis of black bin waste has shown 24% of black bin waste is dry, recyclable material.
"Sending this 3,000 tonnes to landfill means we are throwing away £90,000 of potential income which could go towards council facilities and services.
"If we all increase our level of recycling to the Northern Ireland average we can save up to £100,000 per year which could go to reducing our borrowing requirements," he said.