The decision to propose an average rating increase of 11.4 percent across the Thames Coromandel District, for the Mayor, it is a matter of balancing the books.

Mayor Len Salt told CFM that it was as simple as that.

Public consultation on the proposed rate increases and the council’s annual plan opens tomorrow and extends until April 10.

In getting to the proposed new levels, Len said the council had deferred work on the Pollen Street, Thames, infrastructure upgrade and the Whitianga cycleway project.

Work on Shoreline management will continue as will the Kopu Marine project and the Tairua Skatepark.

There are big increases in solid waste collection with three options being proposed for non-rate charges.

While $2.225 million had been included for storm recovery work, Len said other Government funding options were under consideration.

Our full interview with the mayor can be heard on opening the link below.