Taranaki Regional Council media release
24 February 2009
For immediate release

Regional Rates Increase Below Inflation

The Taranaki Regional Council is proposing a rates increase that will amount to less than $10 for the average residential ratepayer for the 2009/2010 year.

However, it is also asking New Plymouth ratepayers whether they would accept a small additional increase to fund improvements to their bus services.

The measures are spelled out in a draft Long-Term Council Community Plan (LTCCP) approved by the Council today (24 February). It will go out for public consultation next month.

The Chief Executive, Basil Chamberlain, says a 2.8% rates increase is proposed for the 2009/2010 year. "It’s below the inflation rate, as are the rates increases we are projecting over the next 10 years."

The small increases reflect a "business as usual approach", though there are new issues for the Council to address. These include:

• Transport: Proposed improvements in the number, coverage and frequency of bus services would see regional rates in New Plymouth increase by a further $2 to $4. "We’re specifically seeking feedback on this," says Mr Chamberlain. "The improvements would include more routes, better timetabling and an orbiter service around New Plymouth schools. We need the community to indicate whether they think this is worth a small rise in their yearly rates."

• Waiwhakaiho River flood control: The draft plan makes provision for upgrading flood protection in the Waiwhakaiho River Valley, where major retail developments are continuing. The Council is investigating the best ways to improve its existing flood protection scheme.

Mr Chamberlain says the Council intends to continue focusing on its core business of ensuring the natural and physical resources of Taranaki are protected and sustained in the long term. To assist this, it is proposing some additional funding for biodiversity protection.

The draft LTCCP goes out for public consultation on 16 March, with submissions due by 17 April. It will be available at all council offices and libraries throughout the region, and a summary pamphlet will be distributed with community newspapers.

ENDS

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