Council adopts Annual Plan

After considering 81 submissions and hearing from 40 submitters, Horizons Regional Councillors have adopted the 2014/15 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, excluding those who are affected by the one-off payment to upgrade the Lower Whanganui flood protection scheme, is 4.52 per cent and will vary depending where people live and the level of service they receive,” says Horizons Chairman Bruce Gordon.

“We were really impressed by the number and quality of submissions made to Council this year. After listening to feedback from the community we have amended some areas of the plan.”

Within the changes the Lower Whanganui flood protection scheme costs are to be part funded from council’s 2013-14 projected surplus, alongside a one year rates payment from Wanganui ratepayers.

The living heritage activity budget has been restored to 2012/13 levels due to a $46,000 increase, with a proportion coming from general reserves. The Rangitikei Environmental Group will also receive an additional $10,000 for the increasing level of work they do towards pest plant management.

Ends

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