The service, which runs the Balclutha-based foodbank, first made a funding request to the Clutha District Council in September last year.
But the submission from the Clutha Budget Advisory Service to the council’s long-term plan was missed due to a miscommunication.
It came before the council this week with a proposal to supply the funds from council investments, but that was not popular among councillors.
Those opposed said there were plenty of employment opportunities throughout Clutha, the service did not reach more distant parts of the district and it was not the council’s or ratepayers’ role to provide social services.
Councillors who supported the service said it did a good service, paid for children’s shoes and supported the foodbank.
Clutha Valley ward councillor Simon McAtamney then suggested approval for the service’s request could be more financially viable if it was funded from council debt rather than from the council’s investment surplus.
The $25,000 would represent about $2.20 from each ratepayer.
The second round of voting reached an even seven votes either way, leaving Mayor Bryan Cadogan to decide the issue with his casting vote.
"I don’t like to use my casting vote in circumstances like these," he said.
"That’s how you divide councils."
Other councillors acknowledged the mayor had been a long-term vocal supporter of the local service and had voted in favour of the request in the first round.
He then used his casting vote.
Service manager Lee-Anne Michelle said the food hub was for everyone in the community struggling with food insecurity.
"The current cost-of-living crisis is affecting everyone, especially those on lower incomes, and we are supporting people who have never needed help previously. We are grateful that the council can provide this vital support to help us continue to support vulnerable people in community."
