BID policy is 'divisive', says council director

"Events on the Peninsula" demonstrated that Gosford Council's draft Business Improvement District policy was "divisive and subject of disinformation", according to a council report.

The report was issued by Gosford Council's director of environment and planning Ms Colleen Worthy-Jennings.

Recommending against giving extensive briefings to business owners, the report stated: "Events on the Peninsula surrounding the draft policy and the earlier approach for support for a BID from the Ettalong Beach Business Group Inc demonstrate the issue is divisive and subject of disinformation.

It cited the Peninsula Chamber of Commerce May newsletter headline, "Gosford Council Proposes Business Levy - Ettalong", as an example of disinformation.

"This in and of itself diminishes the prospects of the establishment of a self-sustaining BID by placing in people's minds the costs before consideration of the extent of any benefits.

"In circumstances in which a council policy would require mandatory adherence and additional impost on businesses, there would be a case for not proceeding with it, and for further extensive consultation.

"However, the draft BID Policy is an enabling policy in which council sets out how it will assist commercial districts that have already developed some momentum in enhancing their centres and have approached council for support."

Council agenda ENV.37, 6 Jul 2010