Submissions slow to come in
From local democracy reporter Jonathan Leask:
The community appears to be content with a proposed 9.4% average rates hike with under 1% submitting on the draft annual plan.
The Ashburton District Council is proposing its highest rates increase in over a decade, but as of Monday morning there have only been 58 public submissions on the plan.
In a district with about 15,588 rateable units, the current numbers equate to an 0.37% submission rate, or just 0.16% of the entire district’s population of some 35,000.
The numbers will likely increase in the coming days with consultation closing on Friday.
The council doesn’t always publicly consult on its annual plans, as they often closely align with the long-term plan (LTP), which received 430 submissions last year.
The last annual plan the council publicly consulted on was back in 2016-17, which carried a 3.3% rise, received 58 submissions.
A council spokesman said it's not unusual for the LTPs to receive a greater number of submissions as they usually contain the major funding decisions that generate a large amount of public interest.
“However, we are very keen to hear from as many of our residents as possible on this annual plan.”
The council has been proactive in discussing the proposals, holding four public meetings, one virtually and then in person in Ashburton, Methven, and Rakaia.
Mayor Neil Brown said while the attendance was low, the quality of questions and discussion was good.
Once consultation closes at the end of next week, the council will hold hearings to discuss the submissions on May 24 and 25.
Poll: Should the government levy industries that contribute to financial hardship?
As reported in the Post, there’s a $30 million funding gap in financial mentoring. This has led to services closing and mentors stepping in unpaid just to keep helping people in need 🪙💰🪙
One proposed solution? Small levies on industries that profit from financial hardship — like banks, casinos, and similar companies.
So we want to hear what you think:
Should the government ask these industries to contribute?
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60% Yes, supporting people is important!
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25.7% No, individuals should take responsibility
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14.3% ... It is complicated
Poll: Do you have a go-to adverse-weather checklist for your family? ☔⚠️
As reported in the Press, the same low-pressure system that lashed the North Island over the weekend is now making its way south, bringing heavy rain and strong winds with it. It’s a soggy start to the week for many of us.
With more wild weather on the cards, we’re curious: do you have a go-to adverse-weather checklist for your family? Or are you more of a “grab the torches and hope for the best” household?
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42.1% Yes - we like to be prepared
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42.1% Nah
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15.8% This is on my to-do list!
A Neighbourly Riddle! Don’t Overthink It… Or Do?😜
Do you think you know the answer? Simply 'Like' this post if you know the answer and the big reveal will be posted in the comments at 2pm on the day!
If you multiply this number by any other number, the answer will always be the same. What number is this?
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