26 June 2013

Plan Holds General Rate Increase To 1.87%

Waikato District Council has set a 1.87% general rate increase for the 2013/14 year as part of signing off on Year 2 of its Long Term Plan.

The Plan, also known as the 2013/14 Annual Plan, was formally adopted yesterday (25 June). This follows community consultation, and consideration of 264 submissions, including the views of 43 submitters who shared their views in person with the council.

Key decisions made by the council include:
• Deferring a proposed forestry targeted rate for a year to allow further discussion with key stakeholders

• An additional $20,000 to be set aside for grants to Northern Region Surf Lifesaving, Ngaruawahia Rugby League Club and Ngaruawahia Community House, in addition to those grants already earmarked in the Long Term Plan

• Council had proposed to reduce funding in the roading budget and use some of the funds to build up our disaster recovery capability through the Disaster Recovery Fund. As a result of submissions and the impact of emergency roading work arising from the summer drought, most of the proposed funds are to be used for road maintenance and repair to address damage from the drought. A smaller contribution will still be added to the Disaster Recovery Fund

• Endorsing the proposed targeted rates for some halls, waste, Raglan refuse and recycling

• Agreeing on a revised funding mechanism for the Huntly septage facility involving an increase in fees and charges and a contribution from general rate

• Endorsing the proposed fees and charges increases to the Raglan Aerodrome, trade waste, property information and the Huntly Pool

Waikato District Mayor Allan Sanson said the council had agreed on a robust and forward looking Plan which met the needs of the community and district.

“We’ve taken a good look across all areas of our business and have worked hard to keep the general rate increase to 1.87% while still maintaining the services our community expects. While there will be increases in targeted rates, these will ensure that important infrastructure and community services have the funding they require to meet the needs of their local communities.

“We would like to thank all submitters for taking the time to share their views and especially those who shared these in person with us.”

ENDS

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