Media statement Tuesday, August 28th, 2007

Rates recommendations earn backing

Business will be pleased with a major recommendation of the Shand
inquiry into local government rating practices, the Employers &
Manufacturers Association (Northern) says.

"The Inquiry's single most important recommendation for business
ratepayers is that local councils would lose the power to impose extra
differential rates on them," Mr Thompson said.

"We wholeheartedly support this, and accept the alternative for rates to
be based on the capital value of property, which will ensure business
pays its full fair share of council costs.

"Capital value rating without differentials is fairer than the current
practice of many councils which is to charge rates based on land value.

"We welcome many of the report's recommendations since they are based on
principles requiring councils to be transparent, consistent and
equitable.

"In fact we believe the report vindicates the position taken by EMA in
our submissions to all the major councils in the northern region each
year over the past seven years."

ends

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