1. How much of the research am I funding?
The total annual science and research cost to Horizons, including charges for fixed equipment, computer software, laboratory costs, staffing and research agency fees is $3.3 million. 30% of this cost is funded by consent holders through the research charges, with the balance being funded through the General Rate.
2. How often is this research charged?
The charge is levied each year unless the consent is cancelled, or expires, or is transferred.
3. To what period does my invoice refer, and how often are invoices sent?
Your invoice refers to 12 month period 1 July 2011 - 30 June 2012. These invoices are issued annually, midway through the invoice period (around January/February each year).
4. How are the charges calculated?
|
Type and Quantity |
2011-12 |
|
Benign Discharges (irrespective of type or quantity) |
$0 |
|
Discharges to Land <50 m3 per day |
$197 |
|
Discharges to Land 50 to 100 m3 per day |
$394 |
|
Discharges to Land >100 m3 per day |
$591 |
|
Discharges to Water <50 m3 per day |
$631 |
|
Discharges to Water 50 to 100 m3 per day |
$710 |
|
Discharges to Water >100 m3 per day |
$788 |
|
Unspecified Volume Discharges (water or land) |
$788 |
|
Discharges to Landfill (irrespective of type or quantity) |
$788 |
5. How much have these charges increased since last year?
The Research charge for:
6. Why do I have to pay?
Council has determined that consent holders receive individual benefit from the research that is carried out.
The individual compliance fee (separately charged) covers the costs of monitoring a holder’s individual consent.
The research charges contribute towards the costs incurred by Horizons in researching and identifying the cumulative impact on our environment of all such activities across our region. Information gained from this research can also be used by applicants during the resource consent application process.
This research is essential for our many regional organisations, farms and other industries, who are dependant on this information. Further, the findings enable us to continue to provide communities and users with ongoing services, including water for recreational use, clean drinking water and a safe habitat for native fish.
By maintaining and further developing knowledge of our region’s natural resources, the interests of the consent holder, the needs of the wider regional community and the resource itself are all protected.
7. How can I have my say regarding these charges?
Research charges are determined by Horizons Regional Council’s elected Councillors following public consultation.
You can make submissions on the Draft Annual Plan during the consultation process in April each year, and during the three-yearly Long-Term Council Community Plan consultation process. For further information on how to get involved, please contact Barry Gilliland (Horizons Policy Team) on 0508 800 800.
8. What do I get for my money?
Cleaner, safer water both now and for the future. By researching the effects of all current resource consents including your own, the Council is able to ensure that such consents can be effectively maintained, whilst sustainably managing the environment now and for the future.
9. What about those people who benefit from this research but are not charged this fee?
All ratepayers, both rural and residential, contribute a total of 70% to these research charges through the general rating system.
10. Why isn’t this fee also being charged to my neighbour?
If you believe that your neighbour should also be liable for this charge, please provide full details and we will investigate this matter.
13. Who can I contact for more information?
Reception/call centre freephone 0508 800 800