Rates rise to be kept to 2.9pc
The Auckland Council has settled on its proposed budget for the 2013/14 year.
It will put the plan out for consultation this month so the public has the opportunity to have its say on where the money should be spent.
Mayor Len Brown says keeping average rates increases to 2.9 per cent is the goal.
‘‘That’s lower than the 4.8 per cent forecast in the Long Term Plan (2012-2022) and the lowest average rates increase to be proposed since the creation of Auckland Council,’’ Mr Brown says.
‘‘We must continue to work hard to balance financial prudence with investment in local communities, transport improvements and boosting our local economy.’’
In order to manage rates, the council is proposing a number of savings and changes. These include: Changing the proportion of costs recovered through fees for animal management, environmental and health licences and mooring fees as well as standardising hairdressing licence fees
Proposed changes to rates remission and postponement policies, including the Maori freehold land rates remission and postponement policy
The council will no longer mow berms in the former Auckland City Council area to bring it in line with all other parts of Auckland
The Freegal music download service offered by Auckland Libraries will no longer be available
Changes in bach and camping fees in regional parks.
Auckland Council is also seeking people’s views on proposals to increase service levels in parks and open spaces, community and events and planning and economic development.
It also wishes to contribute to the cost of the controversial rafting park Wero, the second stage of the TelstraClear Pacific Events Centre.
The draft annual plan also includes the local agreements of local boards.
Submissions on the draft Annual Plan 2013/2014 will be accepted between January 24 and February 25.