Nikki,
In a word, this is ridiculous! What you are saying is that you are being asked for a one time fee of 7.5 million, PLUS an annual fee based on the number of folks in your house.
While I don’t know how things work in Canggu, I do have 10 years under my belt working within my own banjar of Bunutan outside of Ubud. So, maybe some insights I’m happy to share will be useful for you.
First of all, there is NO such thing as a “legal” fee which can be levied upon a foreigner living in any particular village or banjar, BUT, there is the “practical fee” which if a foreigner pays, should allow for many banjar privileges, including (for a lack of a better word), a neighborhood watch (village satpam security) and “hands off” by what might otherwise be called “juvenile delinquents.”
Secondly, I truly hope you have a very close relationship already with at least one male member of adat within Canggu. If not, this is essential, as you need an advocate to spread the word that you are “OK” can be trusted, just there to live and let live and have no intentions of being a problem. Tied into this is another essential thing, that being to meet, and get to know the current village head. Call on him, (if you haven’t already) and bring the traditional Balinese gifts of rice, coffee and sugar. For extra impact, throw in a carton of cigarettes...any brand will do.
Thirdly, what you have been “told” is in reality just a suggestion which has been expressed in a non monetary fashion. If you comply without discussion, you are setting yourself up for more, more and more down the line. What is going on right now is that you are being “sized up.” The key to winning this game is to show interest and concern with what the village really needs, and that is most unlikely to be 1,500 kilos, (or 3,000 pounds) of beras! What I am getting at here is that in your discussions with the head of the village, explore areas where you can help. For example, is there a temple repair or reconstruction project currently going on that you could contribute to. How about the schools? Do they need some updated books, or even a new roof? Show your respect, but also maintain your own pride and dignity.
It is perfectly normal, IMHO, for the Balinese of any village in Bali to view foreign newcomers with a great deal of suspicion and concern. In reality, why shouldn’t they? During this transitional phase, you may often hear the question often voiced by the kids, “when you go home?” When the questions change to kabar bagus ba pak (or Ibu), you will know your transition is over.
Nikki, the “ball is in your court.” It is up to you, and only you to orchestrate your assimilation. Don’t be afraid to make mistakes, but by all means stay available, open, and willing to be a part of your new village. Every village in Bali has its own unique soul or life as I have come to know. Some villages are far better than others for Westerners to call home. In that regard, seek out as many other expats who have already been living in Canggu for a while and solicit their ideas and thoughts.
My final and most important advice is to go to temple from time to time. Being seen in your village temples is akin to census taking. Trust me, Balinese villagers know who does, and does not show up at temple. No Balinese is ever going to tell you that, but I guarantee that the most effective way of demonstrating that you want to be a part of your new village is by going to temple. This has nothing to do with religion, but it has everything to do with demonstrating that you are doing your best to be a part of your new village. Cheers, and good luck!