Regional Council sets rates for 2019/2020

The Council today set the rates for the 2019-20 financial year.

As outlined in the Annual Plan 2019-2020 (adopted 22/5/2019) the overall rates increase for 2019-2020 is 6.9%, equating to an extra $1,172,747. This increase is less than the 7.7% forecast in the Long-term Plan 2018-2028. The overall increase includes an increase in the uniform annual general charge from $94.80 to $101.50, which applies to all ratepayer invoices.

Prudent adjustments to work programmes and budgets, and a South Port (NZ) Ltd dividend were used along with limited reserves and prior year surpluses, to reduce the rates’ impact.

In setting the rates the council had been mindful of the challenging economic climate and the need to maintain levels of service in the face of increasing challenges, including improving water quality more quickly.

Individual rates will vary, which will in part, be due to recent QV revaluations undertaken in the Southland District resulting in movement in property values.

The annual payment of rates is due by 29 November 2019.

To find out more about the work programmes and budgets for 2019-2020 please see our Annual Plan – Tahua ā-tau and Annual Plan Summary on our website or call 0800 76 88 45.