Waitaki residents are facing a rates increase for the next financial year.
The figures were detailed in the Waitaki District Council’s long-term plan, adopted at a council meeting yesterday.
Acting chief executive Paul Hope said no-one was "particularly comfortable’’ with the increases, especially in the outer years.
However, the reduction in NZ Transport Agency [NZTA] funding was by far the biggest factor in the rates increases.
Councillor Colin Wollstein said the increase issue showed how local government was impacted by central government once again.
While rates for the next year were "set in concrete’’, the council would work through opportunities to lower rates for the other years.
Rates could also be reviewed through the annual plan and Waitaki Mayor Gary Kircher expected them to be adjusted as required.
"It is my expectation that we will be able to reduce some of that future expenditure and relieve pressure on rates. Essentially, it’s about delivering services people want at a price they can afford.,’’ Mr Kircher said.
The proposed sports and events centre was also adopted in the long-term plan.
Council’s contribution would be up to $9 million, with $1 million coming from the RMA reserve. It could be reduced depending on funding opportunities.
The council asked the community to choose its contribution, with 36% selecting capping it at $10 million, 15% at $12 million, 27% at $14 million and 22% declining the proposal.
The long-term plan will be available from July 29.
