Rodney Council applauded for holding costs

Media statement Wednesday, May 23rd, 2007

Business applauds Rodney Council for holding costs

The projected rates increases for Rodney for the next 10 years are the lowest in the Auckland region, the Employers & Manufacturers Association (Northern) told the Rodney Council at its hearings on its Draft Annual Plan today.

“EMA congratulates Rodney Council for holding its operating and overhead costs so decisively,” said Peter Atkinson, EMA’s executive presenting the association’s submission.

“Rodney’s rates increases are expected to be close to the rate of inflation. The council is getting its act together.

EMA represents 144 member businesses and other organizations in the Rodney district which together employ 2,200 staff with an annual payroll of $93 million.

“Rodney’s projected rates rises are below those proposed in its Long Term Plan and reverse the trend for the past five years when they were amongst the highest in the region,” Mr Atkinson said.

“EMA urged Rodney to move rapidly to introduce Capital Value rating in consultation with stakeholders, and to drop its business differential.

“At present Rodney’s commercial properties pay $4.30 in rates for every dollar paid by residential properties of the same value.

“Business rates differentials are a penalty many councils use that discourage employment and business growth in their areas,” Mr Atkinson said.

ENDS

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