Rates affordability Debate

Community Wellbeing - Equality & Inclusion

Option 2

Residents supporting Option 2 emphasize the need for fairness in the distribution of rate increases, particularly to alleviate the burden on low-income households. They advocate for targeted relief measures and the preservation of essential services that are crucial for economically disadvantaged groups. Additionally, there is a call for a more equitable approach in the rating system, suggesting adjustments such as not doubling rates for properties with multiple units and considering higher rates for commercial entities to ease pressure on private homeowners.

Table of comments:

Point No	Comment
330.1	I think the liability per property should be just that and not on each individual unit because for example a property that has a couple of two bedroom flats on it compared with the neighbor that is a 3 bedroom stand alone house both have about the same risk to the ratepayer in terms of the slip coming down behind so why should one property pay twice the amount.? It is those lower income households that are going to be disproportionately affected and unaffected subsidising the more expensive housing.
786.1	I think you should offer cheaper refuse to rate payers. I also think you should increase commercial rates more than private homes.
987.1	Option Two strikes a balance between financial responsibility and maintaining services; however, the proposed rate increases are likely to impact low-income households. This demands further consideration of targeted relief measures for lower socioeconomic communities, such as the Victory community.  We need more information about which services the council is suggesting to reduce under option two. Some services, such as public libraries, are significantly more important to those on low incomes and need to be preserved as a priority. Essential services need to be identified and made accessible and equitable for all diverse communities, especially for those who rely on community resources.  Given significant job losses and worsening unemployment, NCC will need to provide rates relief or other options for those in financial hardship. We encourage the prioritisation of new services that support job creation and provide opportunities for those on low incomes or seeking work, as well as those projects that benefit our diverse communities. Projects could focus on affordable housing, access to education, social services, financial relief measures, sustainable kai measures, climate resilience etc. In the 2018 Census statistics, 53.2% of Victory Village residents either owned or partly owned their homes. Increasing rates have a flow-on effect to the already high costs of rental housing, how will the council offset the impacts for low and middle-income whanau.
1482.1	We acknowledge the need for an increase in rates and support the approach of seeking equity in rates, both to reduce disproportionate burdens on low-income families and to minimise deferring major costs to future generations. We also note the impending “bow wave” of renewals applaud Council’s exploration and explanation of the various issues.