News Release
30 June 2011

PCC ADOPTS 2011/12 ANNUAL PLAN

Porirua City Council adopted its Annual Plan 2011/12 last night with an average increase to ratepayers of 5.2% to fund the works and services planned for the next year.

Mayor Nick Leggett noted that the 5.2% rates increase includes an extra $270,000 needed for added insurance costs that have arisen since the Christchurch earthquakes.

"The Council has worked hard to keep rates increases to a minimum while ensuring the core services we provide are not compromised. Some tough decisions have had to be made as we've focussed on priorities across the city. These include looking after key infrastructure and as such we have included $1.2 million for the city's water supply pipeline renewals while an extra $2.1 million has been brought forward to upgrade the pipe network for sewage disposal."

He says the Council's decisions also reflect its commitment to the health of Porirua's residents and its harbour and so $100,000 has been included for a feasibility study to look at sewage issues in Pauatahanui.

"This will enable the Council to make an informed decision via the Long Term Plan review next year that will give the best long term solution for this issue."

The Council is also committed to revitalising the heart of the city centre for residents, businesses and visitors so $150,000 has been budgeted to fast-track the City Centre Revitalisation Plan.

Community projects like the award-winning Villages Development Programme, Bothamley Park restoration, playground maintenance and road safety programmes continue to be funded and an extra $62,000 has allocated for graffiti reduction across the city.

With the quality and number of submission up on previous Annual Plans, Mayor Leggett thanked all those who shared their views and said they will receive a written response to the points they raised by the end of July.

"The Council is conscious that next year, when we review the Long Term Plan, we will have to confront a range of spending deferrals as part of our commitment to keeping rates down There is always an ongoing tension between residents who want cuts and others who don't. So please keep telling us your views and if your suggestions were not included in this Annual Plan you will have another opportunity during the Long Term Plan review. We look forward to hearing from you."

ENDS

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