Municipal fee to rise for HDB residents under 7 town councils

HDB estates managed by seven town councils will see a rise in municipal charges as of September 1, 2012.

The seven town councils are Bishan-Toa Payoh, Choa Chu Kang, East Coast, Holland-Bukit Panjang, Tanjong Pagar and West Coast.

It will be the first time in eight years that a hike in service and conservancy charges is imposed in these towns.

The Straits Times (ST) reported that the hike will be implemented in phases to help residents cope.

S&C charges will first be raised by between 50 cents and $6.50 a month in September. The amount raised will depend on flat type.

Fees will go up further by between 50 cents and $5.50 a month in the second stage to be implemented a year later.

Rising costs and inflation have resulted in the need for the fee hike, the town councils said.

In a statement, town councils also said they would continue to do their utmost to try and rein in costs.

ljessica@sph.com.sg