Environment Canterbury strikes rates for 2013/14

At a council meeting on Thursday June 27, the Environment Canterbury Council struck the regional rates for 2013/14.

For 2013/14, Environment Canterbury has achieved an average rate increase of only 2.9% across Canterbury as a whole. This comprises an average 3.9% increase in the general rate component, and an average 1.8% increase in the targeted rate component, although there will be local variations.

The council’s draft budgets and work plans for the year ahead were subject to public consultation in April. During this consultation period, 86 submissions were received from individuals and organisations across Canterbury, and people were also given a chance to present their submissions in person at the council in early May.

Savings made in a number of key areas have meant the increase is lower than the 8.3% provided for in Environment Canterbury’s Long-Term Plan 2012-22.

“Through a focus on affordable, effective and efficient regional government, we have kept rates rises to a minimum this year,” said Dame Margaret Bazley, Chair of Environment Canterbury’s Commissioners.

“Commissioners and staff carefully considered all the submissions we received.

“We were particularly impressed by the high standard of the submissions at the public hearings and we would like to extend a thank you to all those who took the time and trouble to have their say on our draft Annual Plan.”

ENDS

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