Cr Berman said it was a necessary ``last resort'' to pay for infrastructure work and the upgrading of recreational facilities throughout the shire.

The council has applied to the Minister for Local Government for approval to increase rates by from 5 to 6 per cent from July 2010.

Rate increases are at present pegged at 3.5 percent.

If the rise is approved, the average ratepayer will pay an extra $60-70 a year, or $1.20-$1.40 a week.

Pensioners would be able to claim a rebate of $10 a year.

Cr Berman said the one-off increase of 5-6 per cent would create a kitty of $33 million over 10 years to be spent on critical unfunded projects.

This includes $15 million on ``big ticket item'' Hornsby Aquatic Centre, the $3 million replacement of the Hornsby Pedestrian overbridge and upgrading facilities at sporting fields.

``I'm a ratepayer and am prepared to pay the increase to see improvements to projects,'' Cr Berman said.

``No one likes to pay any more than they have to and it would be wrong to say everyone likes the idea.

``At this time there is reluctance to pay, but preparedness to provide funds to see facilities improved.''

The council recently surveyed a cross-section of residents about what areas needed more action from local government.

An improvement to infrastructure and services was the top priority (44 per cent) and social/recreational wellbeing was the second most important (20 per cent).

The rate increase would take the form of a substitution for or of an extension of the existing Quarry rate, or of a new recreational and sporting facilities levy.

Options about what structure the levy may take will be presented during the period of community consultation.

This consultation period will close at 5pm on Monday, November 30.

Community Consultation Day: 10am-4pm, Saturday, November 21, Asquith Leagues Club. Bookings (essential) 98476747 or email yoursay@hornsby.nsw.gov.au.

Provide feedback by emailing yoursay@hornsby

.nsw.gov.au, post or fax. Internet forum: http://bangthetable.com/hornsbyin frastructure.