Southland 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.
Adopt a user pays approach in respect of fees and charges.
Ensure good governance prevails when debating how council manages and pays for provision of services.
Scrutinise project costs and management of debt and keep rates rises to a minimum whilst delivering the services expected.
Determine the purpose of strategic investments, including forestry carbon credits, and review the position on retaining shares and interests.
Determine whether there is a community mandate to have reserves invested in externally managed funds while borrowing to operate and deliver.
Ensure revenue opportunities currently not being realised, such as developer contributions and leases, are sought to reduce the rates burden.
Adopt a user pays approach in respect of fees and charges.
Ensure good governance prevails when debating how council manages and pays for provision of services.
Scrutinise project costs and management of debt and keep rates rises to a minimum whilst delivering the services expected.
Determine the purpose of strategic investments, including forestry carbon credits, and review the position on retaining shares and interests.
Determine whether there is a community mandate to have reserves invested in externally managed funds while borrowing to operate and deliver.
Ensure revenue opportunities currently not being realised, such as developer contributions and leases, are sought to reduce the rates burden.
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