Hutt City Council has a produced a solid result in holding its rates rise to just under 2.5 per cent, the Mayor of Lower Hutt, Ray Wallace, said today.

"By holding the average rise in rates to less than the rate of inflation, Council has demonstrated prudence in its approach to spending for the year in spite of being faced with major challenges.

These included a rise of $1 million in insurance premiums, increased GST and Kiwi Saver contributions which have all been absorbed by the Council.

Internal reviews to save costs within the council are continuing and savings already identified have gone toward holding the rate rise to the minimum possible.

I am pleased that a number of projects considered vital have been included in new annual plan. These include fixing flooding problems on Major Drive in Kelson, Black Creek flood works in Wainuiomata, the Seaview-Gracefield Vision project, and speeding up investigation into the earthquake strengthening of the City Council Administration Building.

Spending has been increased to keep our City safe through the purchase of CCTV cameras for commercial and shopping areas."

"We have also increased our focus on improving our City infrastructure through improvements to the roading networks and storm water development," said the Mayor.

"Overall, I am very pleased with the combined efforts of Councillors and staff in identifying areas where savings could be made for the benefit of Lower Hutt ratepayers," he said.

ENDS

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