Promotions aimed at activating the Central Business District (CBD) and business development events will continue after City of Coffs Harbour Council endorsed a plan to fund stakeholder-led marketing initiatives.
The City Centre Masterplan Committee, a council committee that includes CBD property owners, has been investigating revenue options to sustain CBD activation activities.
One identified funding source is the CBD Special Business Rate, which was deferred in 2020–21 due to COVID-19.
Although the 10-year special business rate expired in 2023, the Local Government Act allows the City to recoup the amount not collected in 2020–21.
At its meeting, Council voted to revoke the standing resolution that deferred the special rate revenue for that COVID-affected year.
The decision paves the way to recover about $700,000 in rate income, potentially spread over three years, $250,000 in 2026–27 and 2027–28, and $200,000 in 2028–29.
“It’s an important time for our CBD – perhaps a once-in-a-generation moment – with the Coffs Bypass due to open late this year,” Committee Chair Oliver Gee said.
“It’s a chance to knit our CBD back together when the highway no longer bisects the city centre east from west.
“The need to continue special events, advertising and general support for businesses has probably never been greater.”
Mr Gee said it was important to note the proposed recovery of deferred rates would apply to property owners, not retailers who often lease their premises.
City Business Services Director Steve Bayliss said the committee had voted unanimously at its November 2025 meeting to ask Council to recoup the foregone CBD Special Business Rate over a 36-month period.
The proposed recoupment will be included in the draft 2026–27 Fees and Charges and placed on public exhibition.
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