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By local democracy reporter Jonathan Leask:
Mid Canterbury residents are facing a possible 11.5% rate increase.
That is the figure the Ashburton District councillors landed at after two and half days of poring over the budgets for the draft long-term plan, having started with a figure of … View moreBy local democracy reporter Jonathan Leask:
Mid Canterbury residents are facing a possible 11.5% rate increase.
That is the figure the Ashburton District councillors landed at after two and half days of poring over the budgets for the draft long-term plan, having started with a figure of 13.75%.
“A big chunk of the increase is roading,” chief executive Hamish Riach said.
“Roading is the single biggest cost factor”
Over the next three years, the roading budget is proposed to increase by 29% ($10.7m).
The council won’t know until around May if NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi will match its proposed roading programme, and subsidise 51% of the $10.7m.
Debt servicing costs from capital works, including three waters, over the last few years is another large factor, Riach said.
Three waters, drinking, waste and storm water, work will continue to impact the budgets over the next 10 years as the council works to reach mandatory compliance standards.
The final details will be prepared, including how the 11.5% average will impact on various areas, for the next budget workshop on January 17.
There is plenty of water to go under the bridge before the LTP – which includes a new bridge and a water main under it – is locked in at the end of June.
Councillor Carolyn Cameron said she felt the signalled rise is too high.
“I think 11.5% is too much.”
Deputy Mayor Liz McMillan said councillors probably all agreed it was too high, but would struggle to find ways of cutting it back.
Mayor Neil Brown said it will be up to the ratepayers to decide if the 11.5% increase is too high.
“Let the community tell us when we consult what they don’t want.
“Where do they want us to cut.”
The councillors had been working on a rough formula that 1% equated to $470,000.
Utilising dividends and interest earned from investments, along with reserves, to the tune of $6,447,987 for 2024/25 is effectively subsiding rates by 13.7%.
Of the 11.5% increase signalled, roading, with an additional $1.8m from the council, is around 3% and the compliance works on drinking water (an extra $1.67m) and wastewater ($950,000) combine for around 5%.
Once the draft LTP is produced early next year, it will go out for public consultation in March.
Plenty for community to consider long long-term
Plenty of focus will be on the proposed 11.5% increase in the first year of the long-term plan (LTP), and there is a lot to consider further down the road.
The LTP sets the council’s work programme for the next 10 years and there are lot of big decisions to be made on the future of the district, and the cost implications.
In terms of roading, the second bridge and council’s potential $8m contribution will likely be determined by the new government's revision of transport funding policy.
The council is also planning to install a new water main across the new bridge for an estimated $4.62M.
Like the second bridge will provide resilience for transport, Riach said the second water main will do the same for the water supply. The current main goes across the existing SH1 Ashburton/Hakatere River bridge which will one day need to be replaced.
The introduction of green bins, kerbside food and green organic waste collection is planned for year three (2026/27).
One area that will garner plenty of discussion, as it did in the budget workshops, is where $3m should be spent on aquatic facilities – if at all.
A repair of the Tinwald Pool, a new outdoor pool at EA Networks Centre, a waterplay and paddling pool at the Ashburton Domain, and hydroslides at EANC were all presented as options – as was the option to do nothing.
Councillor Richard Wilson labelled the Tinwald Pool a dead duck due to the unknown extent of repairs needed matched with lifeguard resourcing issues.
Building a new outdoor pool at the centre, which would alleviates the lifeguard issue, was the preferred option by a slim majority - just ahead of doing nothing.
There was little appetite for hydroslides, while the domain water play option remains part of the Ashburton Domain 30-year plan and could still go ahead in the future.
All five options will be up for debate through the consultation process.
An extension to the aquatic side of the centre, estimated at $22m, was ruled out of the LTP.
A $21m extension to the centre's stadium, which would add three courts and additional car parking, has been included from year five (2028/29).
The Art Gallery and Heritage Centre is almost 10 years old and requires ‘significant renewals’ in the LTP, which include new lighting, a reconfiguration of the shop and reception, and a $2.5m refresh of the museum display around 2028/29.
The community will also be asked to consider the future of Balmoral Hall.
There was $480,000 budgeted for repairs, but Riach said it is “woefully inadequate”.
The actual cost is estimated to be around $1.4m, which the councillors felt was too much and will instead look to divest the building.
New Zealand Food Safety is supporting Woolworths in its recall of its Summer Berry Mince Pies due to the possible presence of fine metal.
What you need to know:
- Due to a manufacturing issue, fine wire may have got into the pies.
- Two consumer complaints have been received but no injuries … View moreNew Zealand Food Safety is supporting Woolworths in its recall of its Summer Berry Mince Pies due to the possible presence of fine metal.
What you need to know:
- Due to a manufacturing issue, fine wire may have got into the pies.
- Two consumer complaints have been received but no injuries have occurred.
- This recall affects 2 batches of mince pies sold at Woolworths, Countdown, SuperValue and FreshChoice stores nationwide:
Summer Berry Mince Pies 360g with a 12/06/2024 best-before date
Summer Berry Mince Pies 360g with a 13/06/2024 best-before date.
- If you have bought any of these mince pies, they should not be eaten, and can be returned to the place of purchase for a refund.
- The batches under recall have already been removed from store shelves and have not been exported.
If you have consumed any of this product and are concerned for your health, contact your health professional, or call Healthline on 0800 611 116 for free advice.
Transform your hen house into a colourful garden feature with Resene paints.
Find out how to create your own with these easy step by step instructions.
Ready for a festive movie night? Check out our top picks for the Best Christmas Movies for 2023!
Whether you're into laughs, rom-coms, or family fun, we've got your holiday vibes covered. Grab your popcorn and let the Christmas magic begin!
It’s that time of the year when we eat a little too much Pav, watch Love Actually for the umpteenth time then head off on holiday in search of some summer fun with friends and family. As we sign off for the year, we’d like to wish everyone a joyous holiday season filled with warmth, love and … View moreIt’s that time of the year when we eat a little too much Pav, watch Love Actually for the umpteenth time then head off on holiday in search of some summer fun with friends and family. As we sign off for the year, we’d like to wish everyone a joyous holiday season filled with warmth, love and laughter. So, from all our staff and residents, have a very happy holiday and a safe and prosperous New Year.
By local democracy reporter Jonathan Leask:
Large retailers popping up outside Ashburton’s CBD have had little impact on spending in the town centre, according to a new report.
Infometrics was commissioned to analyse how major retailers operating outside the CBD zone were impacting central … View moreBy local democracy reporter Jonathan Leask:
Large retailers popping up outside Ashburton’s CBD have had little impact on spending in the town centre, according to a new report.
Infometrics was commissioned to analyse how major retailers operating outside the CBD zone were impacting central economic activity, and the wider Ashburton economy.
The report was in response to the Ashburton District Council recognising the potential impact of new retail developments on the CBD.
The developments include the River Crossing precinct, which opened at the end of 2022 with Kmart as the anchor tenant.
On the other side of SH1, Briscoes shifted out of the CBD to set up next to a new Rebel Sport in April, with a Chemist Warehouse opening next door.
Infometrics analysis found that, to date, the value of electronic card spending in Ashburton's CBD has been relatively consistent since October 2021.
“Given inflation over this period, this suggests a slight pullback in real spend per transaction, however, there is no clear effect associated with the opening of Kmart,” the report said.
Total spending, excluding fuel, grocery and alcohol, in Ashburton’s CBD rose 5.6% between the first half of 2022 and the first half of 2023, ahead of the national increase of 3.2%.
Infometrics also found there was little evidence that the introduction of new retailers outside of the CBD hurt overall retail employment.
As of February 2023, there were 1570 people employed in retail in central Ashburton (the CBD area and the fringe retail centres), up 60 people from February 2022.
The report suggested the rise was likely driven by Kmart's opening and associated hiring activity.
Kmart is understood to have added 100 jobs between February 2022 and February 2023, but the net growth being less, a net 55 jobs, “could suggest that other department stores and leisure retailers have either been unable to replace staff lost to Kmart or have otherwise reduced their staffing”.
The report concluded that spending had been similar to before big box retailers moved in.
“Overall the retail sector is under a degree of stress nationally, reflecting the cost of living pressures being borne by households, and the flow on effect to their spending.
“With spending eroded by still-high inflation, modest nominal growth in sales could translate to a decline in real sales.”
The report cost $4000, with data costing $2325.
A report on the impact on the wider Ashburton economy has not yet been received.
Thanks to our friends at Ministry of Business, Innovation & Employment and the Ministry of Primary Industries, we're bringing Neighbourly members updates on recent recalls.Click on the item to get the full details.
Lisa’s brand Hummus Chargrilled Capsicum
Value brand Lemonade
… View moreThanks to our friends at Ministry of Business, Innovation & Employment and the Ministry of Primary Industries, we're bringing Neighbourly members updates on recent recalls.Click on the item to get the full details.
Lisa’s brand Hummus Chargrilled Capsicum
Value brand Lemonade
Luv a Pie Butter Chicken pie
Clonbern Kitchen Truffle & Parmesan Beef Sausages
Magnetic Ball fidget toy
Oversized Kids Hoodie blanket
Tegel Chicken Sausages
New World NZ prime beef mince
Mr Beast Milk Chocolate Bar
The Original Paprika & Onion Kumara chips
Electric oil burner
This information is designed to help keep your home, family and friends safe.
Christmas is just around the corner and for most kiwis this means preparing our homes to host a nice warm meal, but for some this can be a really hard time of the year.
Filled with food essentials and Christmas treats, a Christmas Box is a much-needed addition to the table and also a … View moreChristmas is just around the corner and for most kiwis this means preparing our homes to host a nice warm meal, but for some this can be a really hard time of the year.
Filled with food essentials and Christmas treats, a Christmas Box is a much-needed addition to the table and also a much-needed reminder that people care. This year we will deliver 45,000 boxes to those in need but we need your help!
Help us bring hope to the table for those struggling by donating a Christmas Box for just $40 at christmasbox.co.nz.
By local democracy reporter Jonathan Leask:
An upgrade of Ashburton’s police station has been ruled out - for now.
In 2019, then Minister of Police Stuart Nash said police planned a major refurbishment or replacement of the existing Havelock St police station "for approximately … View moreBy local democracy reporter Jonathan Leask:
An upgrade of Ashburton’s police station has been ruled out - for now.
In 2019, then Minister of Police Stuart Nash said police planned a major refurbishment or replacement of the existing Havelock St police station "for approximately 2025-26”.
Police have now confirmed there are no plans to redevelop the Ashburton station and that “it remains serviceable”.
“The plans were in the very early stages, and have not progressed to an approved concept, option, or business case.
“Police has portfolio planning work under way and the Ashburton station’s future will be considered as part of that.”
The council is in the middle of vacating the Havelock Street site this month, to move into Te Whare Whakatere Ashburton Library and civic centre, and put it on the market next year.
The possibility of the Ashburton police shifting 400m up the road resurfaced, only to be deemed a non-option by police.
Ashburton station’s future will be considered as part of a wider portfolio of planning work, police said.
In 2019, Nash said an analysis of the existing building and potential future site or redevelopment options were in a preliminary stage.
He later confirmed that an initial inspection of the Ashburton District Council's headquarters had been undertaken by police's regional property manager.
During 2020, then-Rangitata MP Andrew Falloon was on Nash’s case for progress updates, and if the council building was being considered as a potential site for a new police station.
Nash responded to Falloon’s enquiries that the police were “assessing options in relation to the current Ashburton police station site and its ability to accommodate future policing services for this community”.
An assessment of the existing station building and site were due to be undertaken and completed by end of 2020, but the timing was subject to change, Nash said.
Falloon then resigned in July 2020 and the dialogue around the future of Ashburton’s police station went quiet.
Council chief executive Hamish Riach confirmed there had been discussions with police.
“We understand that any change or update to their existing premises is not scheduled until 2029.
“This effectively rules them out of any serious consideration for the existing administration building site."
It still begs the question, the same one repeatedly asked by Falloon back in 2020, if the soon to be vacated council site is a viable option for an upgraded justice precinct given its location next to the courthouse.
Under the Policing Act 2008, the operational and administrative decisions including decisions on the use of police resources are matters for the police commissioner, not the Ministry of Justice.
Find the new Chemist Warehouse in Ashburton, next to Noel Leeming.
With the biggest range of all your health and beauty essentials at the lowest prices and Free Prescriptions* - the team are ready to help 7 days a week!
Don't worry if you can't make it in-store, you can … View moreFind the new Chemist Warehouse in Ashburton, next to Noel Leeming.
With the biggest range of all your health and beauty essentials at the lowest prices and Free Prescriptions* - the team are ready to help 7 days a week!
Don't worry if you can't make it in-store, you can shop online 24/7!
We look forward to seeing you soon!
Chemist Warehouse - Great Savings, Every Day!
For many people, the thought of downsizing and moving to a new house can be pretty daunting, especially if you’ve lived in the family home for the last 20 to 30 years. But if you take the plunge, it can open the door for you to truly expand your life.
There are two things to consider when … View moreFor many people, the thought of downsizing and moving to a new house can be pretty daunting, especially if you’ve lived in the family home for the last 20 to 30 years. But if you take the plunge, it can open the door for you to truly expand your life.
There are two things to consider when you’ve decided to sell up – how to present your home so it’s appealing to buyers and packing up your home for the physical move.
Before you jump into renovations to make the place look shiny and new, think carefully about the value they will add to the house and whether you’ll recover that cost in the sale price. Renovations can be costly, stressful and time-consuming, so they’re only worth making if they’ll add significant value to your house sale.
Click to read more.
Get into the festive spirit with homemade gifts crafted by your little ones!
Our list of the top 5 DIY gifts for kids is here to spark their creativity and spread joy. Check it out now!
Struggling to find the perfect small Christmas present? For just $15 each, you can buy Heart Foundation Lottery tickets for family, friends or even good neighbours. Not only will they have the chance to win a stunning Jennian home in Clarks Beach, Auckland, but you are also supporting the … View moreStruggling to find the perfect small Christmas present? For just $15 each, you can buy Heart Foundation Lottery tickets for family, friends or even good neighbours. Not only will they have the chance to win a stunning Jennian home in Clarks Beach, Auckland, but you are also supporting the life-saving work of the Heart Foundation.
If you have a furry friend at home, be sure to submit your entry for this year's Santa Paws campaign - a celebration of the cutest Christmas pets in town!
There's ten great prizes of $100 Prezzy® cards up for grabs - but only a few days left to enter so move fast!
… View moreIf you have a furry friend at home, be sure to submit your entry for this year's Santa Paws campaign - a celebration of the cutest Christmas pets in town!
There's ten great prizes of $100 Prezzy® cards up for grabs - but only a few days left to enter so move fast!
Check out the fantastic entries received so far and don't forget to share your photo today!
Sale now on at Resene ColorShops! For a limited time only save the GST value on Resene premium paints, wood stains, wallpaper and decorating accessories at Resene ColorShops.
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