NEWS RELEASE

Thursday, 29 June 2000

Annual Plan progress strategic goals

Auckland City Council 's approval today of its Annual Plan for 2000/01 progresses several key strategic goals, says Mayor Chris Fletcher.

Mrs Fletcher says the plan is a responsible approach to meeting the city's present needs along with making provision for future requirements.

"The Annual Plan increases rates overall by 0.52%. It is pleasing that the overall increase has been kept to a minimum due to growth in the rating base."

As a result of changes to rates differentials between residential and non-residential properties, rates for businesses in the Central Business District will fall by 2.92%. Residential rates will increase by 1.9%, or $20.00 for the average property.

Mrs Fletcher says, the plan for the coming year shows vision and makes a start on implementing a number of priorities contained within the strategic plan.

"I am especially pleased that Council has approved $845,000 for the Tag-Out graffiti strategy to provide a 24 hour response to remove graffiti. This initiative was a key 2005 milestone in the strategic plan, early implementation shows Council's resolve to deal with the issue seriously," she said.

$4.8 million has been provided in the plan for a dedicated fund for passenger transport and an arena. Another $5 million, from a special dividend from the Airport shares, has also been allocated to transport.

"The dedicated funding for passenger transport provides a substantial basis for the large contribution that Council faces in reducing congestion.

"It is a well balanced Annual Plan which has taken into account public submissions by keeping rates down and still making progress on our strategic objectives," said the Mayor.

Ends.

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