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31 May 2016, 5:04 PM
After considering 91 submissions and hearing from 36 submitters, Horizons Regional Councillors have adopted the 2016/17 Annual Plan.
The Annual Plan outlines the work Horizons will do in the year ahead to manage its land, air and water resources and what it will cost. “The average rate increase across the Region is 3.1 per cent and will vary depending where people live and the level of service they receive,” says Horizons Chairman Bruce Gordon. “We were pleased by the number and quality of submissions made to Council this year around the areas outlined in our consultation document. These three activities were around our role in regional growth, changes to river schemes and changes to transport. “It has been heartening to have community members taking the time to consider Council’s direction and share their thoughts through the process. There are always robust discussions around how to achieve the best balance for our Region’s communities and their requests.” Mr Gordon says after listening to feedback from the community Council have amended some areas of the Plan. “Following consultation Council has decided to defer works on the Koputaroa No.1 Pump Station, and drop the rate increase from 10 to 4 per cent to reflect the deferment,” he says. “Council has also resolved to take a coordinating role around regional growth by working with territorial authorities, iwi and businesses. This includes the implementation of the Accelerate25 programme and has been allocated a budget of $230,000; made of $130,000 from reserve funds and $100,000 from the UAC general rate.” The breakdown of average rate changes per district are as follows: Horowhenua 4.4 per cent increase Manawatu 2.3 per cent increase Palmerston North 4.1 per cent increase Rangitikei 1.8 per cent increase Ruapehu 1.2 per cent increase