Seniors to enjoy free dog registration

Mayor Tom Tate has today announced free dog registration for seniors.“My annual City Budget survey is underway and I’ve heard from many seniors that their annual dog registration fee is an issue they’d like to have reconsidered from 2018-19,’’ he said.“Today, I announce an end to dog registration fees for seniors, from the next financial year onwards. Our seniors deserve some financial assistance and I’m sure all Councillors will join me in formalising this arrangement during the upcoming 2018-19 budget discussions.’’The initiative will cost the annual City budget around $225,000 with 10,256 dogs registered across the city to owners that hold a pensioner concession card. A typical dog registration is $29.50 annually per pet* (*Applies to Senior Card Holders).Division 11 Councillor Hermann Vorster said the issue of a seniors’ dog registration discount was first raised with his office in January.“I have supported the budget survey with my own divisional survey and this issue is top-of-mind for many seniors,’’ he said.“A few dollars saved here means seniors have more to spend on the grand kids, or themselves.“Dog ownership is important for many older people as pets play an important role as companions.’’Mayor Tate also announced a continuation of:Annual Free Seniors Concerts (first week of August);Free seniors IT/computer training;Free CPR training for seniors;Free Seniors Off-Peak Bus Travel and $2 Council Cab Service (ongoing);A range of regular recreational and social activities for seniors at libraries, community centres, parks and pools;Support with bin collection and mowing nature strips;And $270pa maximum rates discount for pensioners (ongoing)The budget survey continues until 29 March with 980 residents having completed the survey to date.Go to: gchaveyoursay.com.au/budget1819  Feature video: Not featuredHomepage featured: