Waipa¯'s proposed rates increase in line with LTP

Draft proposed average annual rates increases for Waipa¯ District Council ratepayers are aligned with the 2021-31 long-term plan despite record levels of price inflation in the wider economy.

Waipa¯ District Council’s draft 4.3 per cent average rates increase is testimony to the effective approach council has taken to its budget, especially with annual consumer price inflation at 5.9 per cent for the year ended December 31 — its highest level in 30 years, says Waipa¯ ’s deputy chief executive and chief financial officer Ken Morris.

The draft 2022-23 annual plan was discussed at a public workshop as part of the strategic planning and policy committee meeting on Tuesday.

Ken said there were several further steps in the adoption of the final annual Plan by June 30.

Following Tuesday’s meeting, it will be formally presented to the committee meeting on March 1 to seek elected members’ approval to engage with the community from mid-March to mid-April.

While a special consultative procedure was not required due to the draft proposed average rates increase staying similar to that estimated in the 2021-31 long-term plan, council is still keen to engage with the community about the plan and gain feedback.

Ken had a word of caution on the draft proposed average rates increase — although the 4.3 per cent is the average, few properties will receive an increase of that level.