NEWS RELEASE
from Hutt City Council
13 February 2009

Rates forecast to rise 3.2%

The proposed average rates increase for Hutt City residents for the forthcoming financial year will be 3.2%, following the sign-off of the draft Long–term Council Community Plan 2009-2019.

Hutt City Mayor David Ogden welcomed the result, saying it was in line with the Council’s strategy of rate increases not exceeding inflation plus 0.5%

"We live in challenging economic times and every dollar is precious. The Council recognises rates are a big cost for residents – especially the most vulnerable, those on fixed and low incomes.

"For that reason, over the last few years, Council has worked hard and been successful in delivering to ratepayers among the lowest – if not the lowest – rate increases of any city council in New Zealand.

"In 2009/10 the projected average rates increase is just 3.2%. After inflation is accounted for, this represents a real decrease of 0.2%.

"The Council remains committed to reducing the city’s debt from the current $80 million to under $30 million by 2015. This will keep rates down, save millions per annum in interest, and enable the Council more flexibility to borrow for major projects in future years.

"As well as keeping rates affordable and managing our debt level, Council will maintain a strong focus on providing residents with high quality services and amenities, from animal control and recycling to libraries and swimming pools. Last year residents’ satisfaction with Council’s services was the highest on record and I want to keep it that way!

"Maintaining and improving infrastructure that enables the city to function, such as flood protection, water, waste and roads, remains vitally important, with the Council to invest $403 million over the next ten years in this area.

"While the credit crunch has forced some councils to send in the razor gang to slash and burn when formulating their plans, careful budgeting has allowed Hutt City to take a more 'steady’ approach.

"Being a draft Plan, the Council wants feedback from residents and ratepayers. I encourage them to read the document, make a submission and answer the questionnaire. In 2008 the Council received 1,262 submissions, up seven percent from the year before, and we hope for a similar level this year," Mayor Ogden said.

In the week of 30 March, copies of the draft Plan will be available at the main Council building, libraries and www.huttcity.govt.nz, and a summary version will be sent to residents.

Public submissions on the draft Plan close on 30 April.

ENDS

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