Ratepayers can comment on the three rating options, which are:

■ Option 1 - Take no action: Rate peg only, total increase 15.9 per cent. Result: Deteriorating operation position and depletion of cash reserves.

■ Option 2 - Fund financial sustainability: 22 per cent above the rate peg, total increase 37.9 per cent. Result: Retain and in some cases improve the existing level of services without depleting cash reserves

■ Option 3 - Fund revitalisation: 31 per cent above the rate peg, total increase 46.9 per cent. Result: Improve current service levels into the future and accelerate priority projects.

The Road to Recovery survey is now open and are keen to hear from as many people as possible about all council activities, where improvements are needed, and our financial future.

The survey should take approximately 10 minutes to complete and your answers are strictly confidential.

Access the survey online at the council's website, newcastle.nsw.gov.au, and click on the Road to Recovery button on the home page.

Community drop-in sessions are also continuing this week at local libraries:

■ Wednesday, October 22, 4.30-7.30pm, Wallsend Library, Bunn Street, Wallsend.

■ Thursday October 23, 2pm-5pm, Lambton Library, Morehead Street (corner Elder Street), Lambton.

■ Saturday October 25, 9.30am-noon, Stockton Library, King Street, Stockton.

Drop in for more about the proposed special rate variation options and what you will get for your money.