Homeowners in Napier are bracing for a substantial 23.7% increase in their rates this year, in a move made by the Napier City Council as part of its three-year strategic plan.
The substantial rise was primarily aimed at bolstering the city’s resilience following the devastation caused by Cyclone Gabrielle.
Mayor Kirsten Wise told State media RNZ the plan’s focus was on essential services and infrastructure, noting that apart from enhancing disaster resilience, no new projects are on the horizon.
Wise said it was necesary to address recovery needs while managing the soaring costs of materials and labour as soon as possible to avoid ‘burdening future generations’.
The council is set to seek public feedback on various aspects of the plan, including council housing, resilience strategies, investment management, and the future of council facilities, starting 25 March. In a shift towards prioritising retirement housing, the council also plans to divest its social housing portfolio.
