Dunedin Annual Plan sends the right signals

Dunedin Annual Plan sends the right signals for improved governance

Property Council is pleased to note Dunedin City Council’s Annual Plan 2016/17 is largely aligned with the council’s Long Term Plan 2015-2015.

The Otago Chapter supports the council’s vision of making Dunedin "one of the world's great small cities" and the Plan’s direction which is laid out in eight key strategies.

Otago Chapter Chairman Geoff Thomas says the property sector is a significant contributor to the city’s economic prosperity and it is good to see there are no dampeners in the Annual Plan.

“Our property sector is worth nearly $20 billion, which makes it an integral part of Dunedin’s economy.

“With numerous councils around the country being challenged on their decisions with heavy ramifications for the industry, it’s reassuring to see we don’t have that problem within the Annual Plan.”

For this reason, Property Council believes it’s imperative that council ensures the Second Generation District Plan (2GP) does not discourage building and development in the city.

“The 2GP will be a powerful investment signal which will essentially tell New Zealand and the world whether Dunedin is open for business or not.

“To seriously improve Dunedin’s economic growth, employment opportunities and better social outcomes, the Plan must simplify and relax onerous zoning rules and be clear and realistic in its expectations on heritage protection.

“We know from other regions that these issues are significantly holding back growth and prosperity.”

Property Council is pleased with the council’s reduced rate increase of 2.9%, which is significantly less than the Long Term Plan’s original estimate of 4.9%.

“We are happy with the reduced rates increases as they encourage businesses to come here, and aid higher performance in existing businesses.

“It is important that these calculations are made using objective assessments of alternative options to ensure vital funds are not taken away from key council projects.”

Furthermore, Property Council believes Dunedin City Council is futureproofing its financial position by aiming to reduce debt to $226 million by the end of 2016/17 year, from the previous estimate of $230 million.

“This kind of forward thinking helps Dunedin’s economic position and achieves improvements for the city as a whole.”

As a general position across New Zealand, Property Council supports fiscally responsible councils that can appropriately manage debt while continuing to provide essential council services.

“In general, we’re are pleased with council’s direction in the Annual Plan and believe it’s on the right track to tackle issues in the future.”

ENDS

© Scoop Media