Farmers on the Taieri have waited 12 months since they asked the regional council for a review during last year's long-term council community plan consultation. Their request was reiterated at meetings last month.
They hoped the review would identify the true beneficiaries of flood and drainage work on the Taieri, so rating could become fairer.
Mr Martin said at the engineering and hazards committee meeting this week that "principles" of the Taieri rating issues would be presented next month.
"We're trying to do this as rapidly as possible."
Cr Stephen Woodhead said it was a very complicated issue, given the mix of flood and drainage schemes, as well as maintenance work needed.
"Then there are the issues that come out of the flooding [in 2006 and 2007]. It is a very complicated picture."
Cr Bryan Scott said the issue of fair rating, particularly in relation to new works, had been noted and the council was working on finding the best, fairest and most sensible way to work it out.
