Masterton District 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.
Commit to responsible financial management that delivers essential services while keeping rates fair, modest and predictable.
Live within budget lines by prioritising core services and deferring or scaling back non-essential projects.
Seek alternative revenue sources such as government grants, user-pays systems and public-private partnerships to reduce pressure on rates.
Keep rates affordable so they do not outstrip household incomes, ensuring that local families are not burdened by increases they cannot sustain.
Limit new council debt by making smart use of existing infrastructure and leveraging current assets to fund priorities.
Use new debt only to invest in assets that generate income and provide a measurable return.
Ensure transparent budgeting, careful monitoring of expenses and long-term financial planning.
Prioritise responsible spending so essential services are maintained without placing extra financial pressure on residents.
Set fees fairly, making sure they reflect the cost of services while remaining affordable for the community.
Commit to responsible financial management that delivers essential services while keeping rates fair, modest and predictable.
Live within budget lines by prioritising core services and deferring or scaling back non-essential projects.
Seek alternative revenue sources such as government grants, user-pays systems and public-private partnerships to reduce pressure on rates.
Keep rates affordable so they do not outstrip household incomes, ensuring that local families are not burdened by increases they cannot sustain.
Limit new council debt by making smart use of existing infrastructure and leveraging current assets to fund priorities.
Use new debt only to invest in assets that generate income and provide a measurable return.
Ensure transparent budgeting, careful monitoring of expenses and long-term financial planning.
Prioritise responsible spending so essential services are maintained without placing extra financial pressure on residents.
Set fees fairly, making sure they reflect the cost of services while remaining affordable for the community.
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