Media Release

The Council Sets 2014/15 Rates

At today’s Council meeting the 2014/15 rates were set, reflecting the core services and work programmes in this year’s annual plan, which was adopted in June 2014.

Overall, rates have gone up by 6.72% this year, however some ratepayers will experience a decrease in rates due to lower property values. For most of the ratepayers who do experience an increase, it will be no more than an extra $50 for the year.

Rates contribute to the breadth of Environment Southland’s work programmes and core services including flood protection schemes, water and air quality programmes, biosecurity, emergency preparedness, education and community programmes, community representation and communication.

Dairy farmers pay an additional dairy differential rate to help pay for the dairy support services.

Overall, rates for the 2014/15 year amount to approximately $15.8 million (including GST), approximately. This accounts for nearly 52% of the Council’s total revenue. The remainder required to meet the Council’s budget comes from specific local contributions, levies, external recoveries (e.g. consents and compliance) investment income and South Port dividends (Environment Southland is a 66.48% shareholder of South Port NZ Ltd.)

Rates’ invoices for the single instalment will be posted on 10 October 2014 and the final date for payment is 28 November 2014.

ENDS

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