Western Bay council defers its Long-term Plan decisions

Western Bay of Plenty District Council has deferred adoption of its Longterm Plan due to a “lack of clear national direction” on core water and transportation services.

At a meeting last week Western Bay councillors agreed to stall the adoption of its Long-term Plan to allow time to factor in a number of potential government-driven changes, post the October 14 general election.

It will now adopt its Long-term Plan 2024-34 in September 2024.

Western Bay Mayor James Denyer said in a statement it was a “very deliberate decision” as there was “significant uncertainty and implications” regarding the affordable waters reform and transportation spaces following the general election.

Denyer said it was vital to have the most accurate and up-to-date information on these key areas.

The deferral meant the council would miss its deadline for adoption by the end of June 2024. It was unclear whether provision for later adoption would be considered in legislative changes.

“We are not alone in this space, with most councils experiencing challenging situations with rates and rating implications due to dealing with so many external factors all at once — the current legislative environment, change in government, inflation and the cost of living,” Denyer said.

The statement also said the current environment was also challenging due to significant inflation and increased debt servicing costs, which put more pressure on the council’s budget and ability to deliver core services and intergenerational projects.

Rates affordability was a key issue the council faced, and the uncertainty on water management and transport would compromise the council’s decision-making. “This extra bit of time will allow us to make betterinformed decisions on our financial strategy, including debt levels and rates affordability considerations, and to present a more realistic and robust plan to our community for consultation in May and June 2024.”