Rates adjustment proposed
7 April 2016
Waipa households look likely to see a smaller annual rates increase than they might have expected.
In its 2016/17 draft annual plan, Waipa District Council says it wants to reduce average annual rates increases from 3.2 per cent projected in its 10-Year Plan to 2.07 per cent. Around 70 per cent of Waipa properties will see rates increases of less than two per cent.
Mayor Jim Mylchreest said the proposed drop was largely because of minor delays to some capital works and because of a larger-than-expected cash surplus. The surplus could be used to offset the rates for 2016/17, he said.
None of the works delays will have major impacts, but changing the timing does influence how much money we need in from ratepayers to help pay for the projects. If we don't need the money, we're not going to ask for it.
Ratepayers can find out exactly what their rates bill might be for 2016/17 by using the online calculator at www.futurewaipa.co.nz. During consultation on the 10-Year Plan last year, the rates calculator, which shows the exact rates for specific properties, was used more than 1700 times.
The council is proposing very few changes to plans finalised in June last year when the council signed off on its 2015-2025 10-Year Plan. Proposals include a $10 million reduction in debt levels, an increase in financial reserves and a stronger focus on the council's investment in roads.
Consultation on the 2016/17 draft annual plan opens on April 13 and will run until May 16. Information will be provided in all community newspapers and will also be available from council offices and libraries.
Submissions can be made online at www.futurewaipa.co.nz or via a printed submission form included with newspaper inserts.
Media enquiries, contact Jeanette Tyrrell (on behalf of Council) 027 5077 599