Tararua Rates Under Scrutiny

Tararua council is undertaking a review of its rating policy but ratepayers should not expect quick fixes in the next financial year.


At last week’s meeting chief executive Roger Twentyman cautioned councillors against confusing the rate take with the “tools” to manage the rating system.


“The rate take applies to the Annual Plan (2008/09 financial year) while the tools to make change to such policies are considered in the context of the LTCCP” (Long Term Council Community Plan) Mr Twentyman said.


Community concern about the sustainability of the present system has prompted the council to put the rates under scrutiny.


A major factor is the apportioning of rates derived from various sectors – urban, rural, commercial and industrial.


“The review will provide a mechanism to discuss these issues and suggest options for consultation,” Mr Twentyman said.


Councillors discussed the terms of reference for the review, agreeing that the process should not be rushed.


Options will be presented to councillors over the ensuing months with a view to putting these before different interest groups in the district for comment and discussion.


A firmed up proposal will go out to the public during September /October.


Topics to be addressed will include the appropriateness of the current land value rating system, the use of uniform targeted rates for specific services and activities and its impact on single rating units and low value properties, differential rating, rating remissions and postponements and part charges for water and sewerage services.


The council’s core philosophy of districtwide rating for utility and infrastructural services will also be a major debate.


The last major rating review in Tararua was undertaken in 1992/93.