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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Start by selecting a broad policy topic that you’re interested in exploring.

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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  • Lobby government to better fund local government, ie not just rates but access to GST or income tax funding for key projects and infrastructure.

  • Build income generating assets for council over time to avoid and offset rising rates.

  • Maintain low debt ratios to allow for investment in key community infrastructure projects and keep rates affordability in Napier high.

  • Support keeping rates and fees and charges affordable and justified for our community.

  • Support borrowing to smooth out rate rises and for intergenerational projects.

  • Encourage the community to participate in how the funds/income and rates are collected and spent.

  • Introduce a rates increase freeze for 12 – 24 months to offer some economic relief in light of the current economic situation.

  • Review expenditure in regards to wants and needs for large projects of the city and prioritise in the right order.

  • Improve the ways assets are managed to create more revenue where possible.

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