What do you make of the latest rates rise proposal?
In the wake of a potential 25.5% rates shock, Hamilton city councillors have settled on their final pitch to the public: 19.9%.
On average, Hamiltonians would have to pay about $10.90 more towards rates every week. But the rate rises would keep coming, with the city projecting rises of 15.5% for the four years following.
Councillors were not happy about the “unfortunate” decision they had to make to keep the city running during Tuesday evening’s debate on the 2024-34 Long Term Plan, and some say the final number may change after public consultation in March-April.
Poll: Is the increase in disability parking fines fair?
In October, the fine for parking in a designated mobility car park without a permit has jumped from $150 to $750—a 400% increase!
The goal is to keep these spaces open for those who truly need them. Do you think this big increase in the fine is fair? Share your thoughts below.
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90.9% Yes, it's fair
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8.2% No, it's unreasonable
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0.9% Other - I'll share below
Only Geniuses Can Solve This Riddle— Are You One?
What is the longest single-syllable word in the English language?
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New series: Waikato Times joins small town council meetings to see democracy in action
Waitomo mayor John Roberston isn’t shy about his council’s savings and cost cutting track record, and if the latest Waitomo District Council meeting was anything to go by, he’s got plenty to crow about.
From cutting back on the small things, like a council building refresh, to saving millions on debt, Waitomo’s council would be one of only a handful to have reduced debt over the past few years.