Horizons Regional Council
Rates and revenue
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.
Rates and revenue
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.
Council debt was due to be paid off within two years in the previous long term plan which was achievable.
Now expecting to reach $86 million council debt with much higher interest rates which is unaffordable for future generations.
Ensure cost-effective spending of ratepayers' money and affordable rates increases, with reduced debt levels.
Work on council to push for a pause on rate increases over the next two years, to lessen the burden of inflation on ratepayers.
Ensure the council maintains a prudent, rather than a maximum, level of debt, with a defined debt repayment plan.
Ensure all council investments are prudently managed to develop alternative sources of council income.
Support a conservative approach to new or increased spending.
Support actions that reduce council debt.
Council debt was due to be paid off within two years in the previous long term plan which was achievable.
Now expecting to reach $86 million council debt with much higher interest rates which is unaffordable for future generations.
Ensure cost-effective spending of ratepayers' money and affordable rates increases, with reduced debt levels.
Work on council to push for a pause on rate increases over the next two years, to lessen the burden of inflation on ratepayers.
Ensure the council maintains a prudent, rather than a maximum, level of debt, with a defined debt repayment plan.
Ensure all council investments are prudently managed to develop alternative sources of council income.
Support a conservative approach to new or increased spending.
Support actions that reduce council debt.
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