Rates rise to under 2 per cent
Waikato District Council has set a 1.87% general rate increase for the 2013/14 year.
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 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.
“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.”
Meanwhile, Waikato Regional Council rates will rise by an average of 1.3% or, for the majority of ratepayers, about $15 a year.
The approved plan represents the second year of the 10-year plan the council adopted in June last year, and will be delivered on a rates revenue of $77.047 million.
