Chipping in for theatre
Hauraki residents may be asked to chip in to Hamilton's regional theatre project.
Waikato Regional Council's new Long Term Plan priorities focus on flooding and biosecurity but other projects, such as plans for a regional theatre could be financed in part by regional ratepayers.
Designs for the $73 million project including a 20 per cent contingency were released in April. It will combine an hotel, a theatre of 1300 seats and a gallery, all part of a cultural hub located near the river in Hamilton for cultural performances from plays and ballet to orchestra shows.
And parts of Hauraki District residents — including parts of Waihi — will contribute to the capital cost of the project.
A targeted rate of 50 cents a year per property is planned to be charged to Hauraki residents along with those from neighbour districts — ThamesCoromandel, torohanga, South Waikato, Taupo¯ and parts of Rotorua.
Other neighbouring districts such as Matamata-Piako, Waikato and Waipa¯ might be charged $5.54 a year.
Community foundation Momentum Waikato says that other organisations will help fund the project such as Trust Waikato ($15 million), local councils ($30 million) and another $16 million to be sought from central government, sponsorship or lotteries.
“And the balance is expected to come from generous families and organisations in the Waikato region,” it says.
But Waikato Regional Council says that this targeted rate is still to be agreed with Hamilton City Council.
“The decision is subject to Hamilton City Council confirming its funding of $25 million towards the capital cost. During deliberations the council also agreed that a funding deed would be developed for the council's approval.
“It will require a number of issues to be addressed to the satisfaction of the council prior to any funding being O¯ released.”