The work of local government is funded mainly by property taxes in the local area, known as rates. This makes up around 60% of council expenditure, with the rest coming from user charges, investment income, regulatory fees and roading subsidies. Councils can also borrow money to spread the cost of large investments such as infrastructure over a longer period of time.
The work of local government is funded mainly by property taxes in the local area, known as rates. This makes up around 60% of council expenditure, with the rest coming from user charges, investment income, regulatory fees and roading subsidies. Councils can also borrow money to spread the cost of large investments such as infrastructure over a longer period of time.
Keep rates affordable.
Support sensible spending.
Provide excellent governance of council-owned assets.
Ensure rates rises are limited by keeping revenue generating assets and only rating for the actually deliverable capital programme.
Reduce user fees and charges where they lock residents out of accessing services on financial grounds.
Rebalance rates to reduce flat-tax components that hit lower-income residents hardest.
Keep rates affordable.
Support sensible spending.
Provide excellent governance of council-owned assets.
Ensure rates rises are limited by keeping revenue generating assets and only rating for the actually deliverable capital programme.
Reduce user fees and charges where they lock residents out of accessing services on financial grounds.
Rebalance rates to reduce flat-tax components that hit lower-income residents hardest.
Compare the mayoral candidates in your area
Compare the candidates for your city or district council
Compare the candidates for your regional council
Compare the candidates for your local or community board