Council must implement a new structure to replace two separate structures used by the former Deniliquin and Conargo Shire councils prior to their merger in 2016.
They must be using the new system by July 1, 2021.
The process will not be rushed according to Mayor Norm Brennan, who said council is already looking at ways to give the community every opportunity to be a part of the process.
‘‘We are keen to work with the community to make sure we have a smooth transition that everyone understands,’’ Cr Brennan said.
‘‘We are going to start a variety of community consultations very soon as we expect it will take some time to get through it.
‘‘This is because things such as town hall meetings are now not an appropriate option, as we make an effort to conduct social distancing to protect the community and prevent the spread of virus or sickness.
‘‘Whatever options we choose to go ahead with, the sooner we start it the better. We want to give the community every opportunity to come on board and be a part of the process.
‘‘We are a council that would rather work with our community to achieve a better outcome that benefits all residents in the Edward River region.’’
Council has proposed replacing the 21 individual sub-categories used since 2016 to just six.
Council released it preferred rating structure in December, which outlines that all farmland will be rated the same with an ad valorem rate of $0.681462.
There are three residential categories — rural, town and ordinary (all non-rural rated properties outside the Deniliquin township) — and business rates are separated between town and ordinary.
‘‘Whatever model comes out of the community consultation, a key focus for council is ensuring we achieve a more equitable rating system,’’ Cr Brennan said.