Rates issue clarified

A 17 October Waikato Times article about Hamilton City Council rates needs some clarification. The article incorrectly suggested the Uniform Annual General Charge (UAGC) is $500 annually, and is charged per bedroom in situations where rooms are rented individually. The article stated the UAGC was being applied four times to a total of $2000 on top of the rates. This is also incorrect; the UAGC is calculated as part of the rates, not an additional charge and four UAGC charges for 2018/19 would be $660, not $2000. The 2018/19 UAGC is $165, with the UAGC in future years still to be determined as it is phased in. The UAGC is not charged per bedroom, but is based on each Separately Used or Inhabited Part (SUIP) of a rating unit. An SUIP requires a separate bathroom, bedroom/living area, and a separate sink (generally as part of a kitchen or kitchenette). The UAGC ensures a more even distribution of rates under a capital value system. The policy intends that in the case of residential properties which have self-contained units, that each unit would be liable for a UAGC. If a property owner feels the SUIP charge has been incorrectly applied they can discuss this with the Council, however I have asked staff to look at the issues raised.

Richard Briggs

Chief Executive, Hamilton City Council