Last chance to have your say on our Annual Plan 2023/24
Feedback on our draft Annual Plan 2023/24 closes in just a few short weeks, and time is running out to have your say.
We want to know if you think we're on the right track or where we could make changes. Find out more about the draft Annual Plan 2023/24 and give us your feedback. Feedback closes at 11.59pm on Monday 3 April.
The plan sets out what work is planned during the 2023/24 financial year and how we will fund our activity, including how much we will need in rates from the region's ratepayers.
What's in the Plan?
Our Chair Peter Scott said the regional council is no different to farms, businesses, and households across the region.
"We all have limits to how much we can spend and limited options to generate earnings to pay for what we want to do. But there is one important difference. A large chunk of our revenue is collected through rates — targeted and general — which means that we are subject to a higher level of scrutiny of our spending than other organisations. And, with inflation at such high levels, we're acutely aware there are limits to what people can afford. We're feeling the pinch from increased costs as well.
"So, when putting together our budget for the next year — our draft Annual Plan 2023/24 — your Councillors gave staff strong guidance to stick with what we agreed to last year and not make any significant changes."
Chair Scott said despite this, council is still proposing an ambitious $270 million work programme for the year. That's a lot of activity and represents a considerable shared interest investment by our community.
"We think we've got the balance about right. We're proposing a 10 per cent increase in revenue from rates. This is made up of the 4.6 per cent originally indicated for year two of the 2021-31 Long Term Plan, as well as the increased budget agreed upon last year for the public transport trial, funding flood recovery and replenishing the general reserve. The actual amount paid by each property will vary."
Further information
- Find out how your rates are spent
- Find out more about your rates
- Calculate your rates