Roading costs lead to small rates hike
By David Hill, local democracy reporter
Waimakariri ratepayers can expect a small rates hike to balance the council’s ballooning roading budget.
Mayor Dan Gordon says the council has increased its proposed rates rise from 5.97%, signalled in the draft annual plan, to 6.24% as staff work to keep on top of rising road maintenance costs.
"Most of the emails, messages and submissions we have received are around roading issues.
"So when it came down to a decision whether we defer some road maintenance or do we keep up with the work we do, the message from ratepayers was pretty clear."
The extra 0.27% rates rise will net an additional $220,000 for council staff to spend on roads.
Gordon said he had been talking to other councils around the country that were facing similar issues with rising roading costs.
And for some, their roading budget had already blown out, he said.
With the rising roading costs, Gordon said staff will be monitoring the council’s contractor closely to ensure road maintenance is kept up to date.
"We feel that level of audit is very important when we are talking about ratepayer and tax payer money."
The increase to the roading budget was the only change from the draft annual plan presented to ratepayers earlier this year.
The council will meet again on June 20 to sign off the 2023-24 annual plan.
Neighbourhood Challenge: Who Can Crack This One? ⛓️💥❔
What has a head but no brain?
Do you think you know the answer? Simply 'Like' this post if you know the answer and the big reveal will be posted in the comments at 2pm on the day!
Want to stop seeing these in your newsfeed?
Head here and hover on the Following button on the top right of the page (and it will show Unfollow) and then click it. If it is giving you the option to Follow, then you've successfully unfollowed the Riddles page.
Poll: Pedestrian access is being extended to the Ōtakaro Avon River - good idea?
Pedestrian access from one of Christchurch’s favourite streets is being extended all the way to the Ōtakaro Avon River. This new 12m-wide pathway will give you a direct, easy route from the street to the river promenade ... perfect for a stroll, a coffee run, or just soaking up the riverside vibes.
We want to know: In your view, what makes a city people-friendly?
What else should our urban areas be doing to support better community connections?
Curious about the full plans? You can check them out here.
-
87.8% Yes
-
12.2% No
Open Storage for Motorhome, Caravan or Boat
We live in Rangiora and have an open area beside our house to STORE a caravan or motorhome if you need to get yours off the road etc. Short or long term. Power available. Early January 2026. Please contact if interested. Thank you Rae
Loading…
