This is in 3 parts Hutt 262 words Wellington 146 Porirua – will need updating for next nc Heading Difficult decisions for councils as are set By Chrys Ayley With rates throughout the region set to increase by up to 4 per cent councils in the Wellington region are looking for ways to cut costs and are inviting ratepayers to have their say on the matter. Hutt City Council recently announced proposed average rates increases for Hutt City residents for the forthcoming financial year will be 3.2 per cent, following the sign off of the draft Long-term Council Community Plan. Hutt City Mayor David Ogden welcomed the result, saying it was in line with council strategy of rate increases not exceeding inflation plus 0.5 per cent. “We live in challenging economic times and every dollar is precious. “The council recognises rates are a big cost for residents- especially the most vulnerable, those on fixed and low incomes.” Mr Ogden said after inflation is accounted for the 3.2 per cent increase represented a “real decrease of 0.2 per cent”. Council will focus on reducing the city’s debt from $80 million to under $30 million by 2015 which will help council keep rates down and give it greater flexibility to borrow for major projects in future years, he said. “While the credit crunch has forced some councils to send in the razor gang to slash and burn when formulating their plans, careful budgeting has allowed Hutt City to take a more steady approach.” Council wants feedback from ratepayers and residents and the draft plan will be available at the main council building, libraries and www.huttcity.govt.nz from March 30. A summary will also be sent to all residents. Public submissions close on April 30. Wellington City Council Meanwhile, Wellington City residents are being encouraged to phone council on their hotline to express their thoughts on its plans to prioritise spending. Mayor Kerry Prendergast said “The aim is to keep the 2009/10 overall rates rise below 4 per cent – we can’t continue to do everything and keep the rates down- we have to make choices.” The council has started a round of early engagement to hear what people think before developing the Long Term Community Plan in April. Ideas already widely discussed in the media include reviewing spending on mowing and maintenance, reducing catering budgets, early closure of libraries and reduced spending on public art. Formal consultation will happen in May but there’s still a chance to phone mayor Prendergast and city councillors on Thursday February 28 between 7 and 9pm Users of Facebook can join the group “What do you want for Wellington?”