The Invercargill City Council confirmed yesterday that residents could expect an average 9.8% rates rise, cutting a proposal to extend the bus service, rejecting further work on Rugby Park stadium and not going forward with a separate glass recycling programme.
The council consulted on its long-term plan yesterday, and made changes as a result of both feedback and changes in the economic environment.
These changes aim to reduce the impact inflation and increased interest rates will have on ratepayers, the council said in a statement.
The planned painting of the Doon St water reservoir was deferred until next year, and the proposed introduction of fortnightly, separate glass recycling was rejected.
A request was made for Wastenet to reconsider future options for glass recycling.
Investment in emissions reduction activities would continue, but at the lower level of $100,000.
Following the removal of government subsidies, the council made the decision not to extend current bus services at the start and end of the day, but has committed to a full review of the current offering.
Proposed maintenance works on Rugby Park stadium were also rejected, although funding allocated for scoping work into a possible outdoor multisport precinct was retained.
Following considerable public feedback, the Low Mow pilot will end at the end of next month.
A recommendation to reduce the Community Wellbeing Fund by $65,000 has been rejected, with councillors identifying the importance of the fund to the community.
The total Community Wellbeing Fund for 2024-25 will be $565,000.
The Heritage Strategy Fund will increase from $180,000 to $200,000 as opposed to the $300,000 recommended in the draft long-term plan (LTP).
Funding for Great South will rise by $72,500 compared to the $145,000 recommended.
Combined, these changes will ensure that the rate increase will not exceed 10%, with council’s long-term plan due to be adopted on June 25.
