The Manukau City Council annual plan was adopted at a special council meeting last night. Rates, on average, will increase by 2.4% down from 2.7% proposed in the draft plan. As well as managing the rates increase down, the council has moved forward the development of the Lloyd Elsmore pool in Pakuranga and the Mangere East library.

“It is always pleasing when we can maintain the increase below the current rate of inflation without cutting any services and in fact adding more than was originally planned, said City Manager Colin Dale.

“The annual plan process is challenging and demanding and that makes it especially gratifying and worth the effort when it results in such a positive outcome”.

A number of changes between the draft and final annual plan were made as a result of the record number of submissions received from residents. Over 9000 submissions were received about the annual plan and the regional water review, leading to a very clear picture of what Manukau residents want.

The council was also able to take advantage of an increased dividend from its Auckland airport shares and a decreased Auckland Regional Council levy to manage the proposed rates increase as well as bringing forward a number of projects.

Residents will first see the increase for the year in their rates bills in early November. Those landowners with vacant sections will see an added benefit with the sewerage rates being halved for such sections.

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