Similar circumstances have occurred on a section of the Esk and Kilcoy Shire boundary. Property sales in this area of Kilcoy Shire have indicated that unimproved valuations in Esk Shire are too low. Unimproved valuations in this area have therefore increased by 50 per cent. Mr Cremer said the valuations, which would take effect on June 30 this year, provided an annual snapshot of unimproved land values at 1 October 2000 and reflected the state of the local property market at that time. It's important to clarify some misconceptions about the relationship between valuations and setting of council rates.
Valuations are only one of many guides available to councils.
The actual rate charged is the decision of the individual council based on its local policies and financial requirements for the year ahead. Amendments to the Valuation of Land Act 1944 mean that some landholders who hold land under a lease, licence or permit from the State will receive two valuation notices this year.