Councillors support Long Term Plan deferral

Published on 27 February 2024

Waitaki District Councillors approved proceeding with an enhanced Annual Plan for 2024/25 and deferring Years 2 - 10 of the Long Term Plan for 12 months at the first Council meeting of the year.

The deferral option was part of Government repeal of water reforms earlier in February. It means Council won’t have to develop a Long Term Plan in 2024 and then amend it in 2025 as a result of changing policies and legislation – saving in administration and cost to the ratepayer.

The enhanced Annual Plan means the community will have the opportunity to understand the infrastructure and funding challenges facing Council in the next decade. It will set the rates, income and spending for the upcoming 2024/2025 year.

Uncertainty over the future of Councils water services, as well as funding for roading and healthcare means the deferral will also give Council more time to ensure affordability in the services it delivers in the next ten years.

ENDS