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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  • Implement more community benefit initiatives, eg the eco-retrofit program I proposed – now Waikato Regional Council's flagship policy.

  • Continue the current conservative policies of very low levels of council debt and modest rate increases in line with the rate of inflation.

  • Use income from council's investments to promote economic development in the region, eg two million dollar grant to upgrade the Sugar Loaf wharf.

  • Use income from council investment to support technology advancements in waste and energy management.

  • Use sound financial practice to keep rates in line with inflation and policy to maintain investment against benefit cost.

  • Investigate partnerships with companies to support economic growth and job creation in our region.

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