Winners and losers in council's annual plan draft | Manawatu-Wanganui News | Local News in Manawatu-Wanganui

Wanganui District Council's draft annual plan 2010-11 has delivered a mixture of winners and losers.

The plan focuses on rates restraint with residential ratepayers facing a 4.3 per cent rates increase over the next year, while rural rates will rise by 6 per cent and commercial rates by 4.9 per cent.

The continuing search for soft water, the riverfront development and promotion of Wanganui are also among the winners.

Among the losers are Wanganui's smaller parks - those not classed as Premier Parks - with some services cut as money is channelled into the Premier Parks.

The council is facing a $6 million loss of roading subsidy from NZTA, and is also propping up Wanganui Gas to the tune of $3 million for the next financial year.

Mayor Michael Laws said the plan was a careful balancing act between moving Wanganui forward and not over-burdening ratepayers.

"This plan comes at a time of significant hardship. Unemployment and financial hardship are at considerable levels in our community.

"But Wanganui cannot afford to stand still. The $350,000 promotional campaign is essential - we cannot afford to lose the battle for people, businesses and visitors."

But not all councillors were happy with the plan.

Cr Rangi Wills said he was concerned at the level of rate rises.

"If I managed my money the way the council has managed rates rises I would be bankrupt. I believe there are some frivolous things in this plan that should be scrutinised and cut out."

Cr Rob Vinsen said there were items in the plan he considered to be "frivolous, misleading, inaccurate and unnecessary".

"For example, $130,000 to be spent on the communications strategy. We don't actually know how that money will be spent."

Mr Vinsen also questioned the need for continuing the search for soft water.

Other councillors expressed reservations over various parts of the plan but only Mr Vinsen and Mr Wills voted against its adoption. Crs Nicki Higgie and Sue Westwood were absent from the meeting.

The plan also notes changes to the 2009-19 Ten Year Plan.

Summaries of the draft annual plan will be delivered to every household and business address. Submissions should be received no later than 5pm on Friday, April 30, 2010.

TEN-YEAR PLAN CHANGES

Winners:

• Virginia Lake receives $100,000 for restoration of water quality.
• For Our Kids initiative receives $30,000 new funding.
• Open Sculpture competition receives $50,000 in new funding.
• Riverfront development receives an extra $500,000 for relocation of the visitor information centre [on top of $550,000 already allocated] and $150,000 for concept plans for the riverfront development.
• Sarjeant Gallery receives $160,000 for a seismic upgrade, access ramp and building improvements.
• Whanganui River Road receives an additional $752,000 for seal extension.
• Riverbank protection will receive an additional $410,000.

Losers:

• Bason Botanic Gardens loses $120,000 for road sealing, drainage, an additional barbecue, paths, park furniture and water heating in the Gardens' residence.
• Wembley, Hipango and Peat Parks between them lose $174,500 that was to be used for toilet replacements / upgrades.
• Neighbourhood parks lose $93,000 for replacement play equipment at a number of parks.
• The library, War Memorial Hall and council offices between them lose $165,000 for furniture and fittings.