Policies

Compare the parties’ positions on the key issues this election. Explore their policies and see how closely they align with your own views and priorities.

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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.

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Narrow your selection by choosing a specific area within your chosen topic. Select the policies you want to explore, pick your favourites and view your results when you’re ready.

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  • Recognise many residents – tenants and owners - will be increasingly cash strapped as depression bites.

  • Pressure central government to use Reserve Bank credit so council debt no longer necessary.

  • Undertake a complete review of the levels of service in our long term plan to identify savings to mitigate against rates increases.

  • Implement our new Investment Policy and investigate alternative revenue generating opportunities to offset rates.

  • Progress the replacement of our Financial Management Information System to upgrade and streamline our financial reporting.

  • Ensure rates increases are affordable and sustainable, by focusing on core functions and levels of service.

  • Ensure council's investment portfolio and non-rate income return on investment is maximised.

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