Hopefully Council is listening to the massive protest vote of 330+ written submissions
submitted by its deadline last Tuesday 20th. That's over 51% which is legally enough to stop this rate from proceeding.
This 'special rate' exploits the small business majority that can least afford it, and delivers $1.8m to the SMBA.
It forces wholesalers, exporters, business-to-business professionals, and those far from the centre of the precinct to fund the retail promotions of the few.
It also mysteriously exempts certain lucky businesses in the heart of South Melbourne, for which no explanation is offered.
The scheme can never deliver fair, equitable, relevant and appropriate representation to each business that's forced to fund it.
This compulsory district marketing levy is a flawed 1980s idea, and unnecessary in the face of the internet and our own marketing plans.
Participation should be voluntary, it's that simple.
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