A general rate increase of 5.4%, with an additional 1.1% to fund the State Government imposed levy for municipal waste to landfill, underpins the Frankston City Council's 2010/2011 draft budget, released for public comment last night.

Council is warning local residents to be wary of companies conducting 'green surveys' in the local area. Residents have reported two different surveys to Council in the last month, both falsely claiming to be supported by Council.

All Frankston City residents over 16 years who feel like getting creative are invited to take part in Perspective Glitch  - a four part urban arts project run on 19 June by Troy Innocent and members of Monash University's Centre for Electronic Media Arts.

The tap has been turned on for Stage  One of the Ballam Recycled Water Project, sending recycled water flowing to Lloyd Park in Langwarrin, and Ballam Park and Jubilee Park in Frankston.

While technology companies all around the world are working round the clock to create the latest in virtual communications tools, Frankston Library has gone one step better  - a real live person!

Frankston Dolphins players have answered the call, dedicating an hour per week to help young Frankston City L-platers gain driving experience and their Probationary licence, but more volunteers are needed.

Eight of Frankston City's best young bands will go head to head at The Grand Hotel next Friday (21 May) in the first heat of Frankston's 'FReeZA Push Start Battle of the Bands, but none will be more motivated than Brighter at Night.

The Frankston City Climate Challenge is aimed at people who want to tackle climate change - in their home, at their office, in their schools and their streets - but  want some  practical  help about how to make a difference.

Frankston City Council staff and the community are again getting in the spirit of Australia's Biggest Morning Tea, raising money for the Cancer Council with events at a number of Council centres

The Sapphires  - starring Christine Anu and Casey Donovan  - are coming to Frankston Arts Centre in the lead up to Mother's Day, and thanks to Frankston business Hoskings Jewellers, everyone who buys a ticket will receive a pair of sapphires, absolutely free.

The I Love Frankston Footy Day returns to Frankston Park next Saturday (15 May), with  a massive crowd  expected to enjoy the football along with a range of family and children's entertainment  - including the chance to meet Scooby-Doo!

Those wanting to find an apprenticeship, or are find keen new construction workers, should lock Thursday, 20 May into their diaries, as Council hosts the Frankston and Mornington Peninsula Building and Construction Industry Careers Night.