01/06/2012
Council's Rates Bill Shock
Cuts may be made to public services across Larne after the council got a £250,000 bill from a power station.
Ballylumford power station is owed the sum as a rates rebate, but the council will have to take measures to afford it.
Larne MLA Oliver McMullan said the council should get insurance in future to safeguard ratepayers in case something goes wrong again.
Ballylumford, owned by American firm AES, claimed the rebate after overpaying on its rates bill.
It is understood to be the first time the power station has claimed a rebate in its 69-year history, and came about because a broken generator meant the station produced less electricity than expected.
A spokesman said Larne Borough Council has written to Finance Minister Sammy Wilson for advice on the issue.
The turn of events could lead to a cut in services to raise money, or the cost could be passed on to ratepayers in next year’s bill.
Larne Councillor Drew Niblock said the problem was "beyond council's control" but that councillors were working hard to find a solution.
(NE/GK)
Ballylumford power station is owed the sum as a rates rebate, but the council will have to take measures to afford it.
Larne MLA Oliver McMullan said the council should get insurance in future to safeguard ratepayers in case something goes wrong again.
Ballylumford, owned by American firm AES, claimed the rebate after overpaying on its rates bill.
It is understood to be the first time the power station has claimed a rebate in its 69-year history, and came about because a broken generator meant the station produced less electricity than expected.
A spokesman said Larne Borough Council has written to Finance Minister Sammy Wilson for advice on the issue.
The turn of events could lead to a cut in services to raise money, or the cost could be passed on to ratepayers in next year’s bill.
Larne Councillor Drew Niblock said the problem was "beyond council's control" but that councillors were working hard to find a solution.
(NE/GK)
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