Stratford District Council

Stratford Urban General Ward
The Stratford District Council provides local services and facilities, such as public transport, rubbish and recycling, libraries, parks, and recreation facilities. It also makes decisions about building and planning, local regulations, and infrastructure, such as water supply and sewerage. The council is made up of 11 councillors and the mayor. Councillors are elected to represent wards (areas in the district). six councillors will be elected from the Stratford Urban ward. This is a first past the post (FPP) election, so you vote by ticking the name of your preferred candidate on your ballot paper. Compare the candidates and their policies to decide who to vote for in the Stratford District Council election.

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.

  • Balance affordability with long-term planning so today's relief does not become tomorrow's burden for future generations.

    Manage council finances responsibly through transparent budgets, careful spending and strong financial oversight.

    Set fees and charges fairly, ensuring they reflect costs while remaining accessible and transparent to the community.

  • Ensure all council debt can be serviced and paid off within three cycles of the council's long-term plan.

    Set council rates at CPI plus 2% maximum.

    Weight council investments to 65% residential and 35% commercial.

  • Balance affordability with long-term planning so today's relief does not become tomorrow's burden for future generations.

    Manage council finances responsibly through transparent budgets, careful spending and strong financial oversight.

    Set fees and charges fairly, ensuring they reflect costs while remaining accessible and transparent to the community.

  • Ensure all council debt can be serviced and paid off within three cycles of the council's long-term plan.

    Set council rates at CPI plus 2% maximum.

    Weight council investments to 65% residential and 35% commercial.