Follow-up survey on Masterton’s amalgamation options

Masterton District Council (MDC) is carrying out a follow-up survey on amalgamation options, following independent analysis of the potential impact on rates.

Time is tight, with the survey closing at midnight on Sunday (2 August), ahead of a Council meeting on Wednesday next week (5 August) to make a decision on the Government’s proposals.

Financial modelling has now been completed for the two amalgamation options currently under consideration: a Wairarapa Unitary Authority and a Wellington Unitary Authority.

The modelling estimates the following annual impacts on rates for Wairarapa properties:

• Wellington Unitary Authority: rates could decrease by around 3%
• Wairarapa Unitary Authority: rates could increase by around 13–16%

The figures are estimates based on the best information currently available.

The survey can be accessed online at: whatsup.mstn.govt.nz Follow-up Survey - Future of Local Government | What's Up Whakaoriori, or through the MDC website – mstn.govt.nz

Masterton Mayor Bex Johnson said it was important to share the latest information on amalgamation options.

“I appreciate the turnaround required is quick but Central Government has applied extremely tight timelines for this process,” she said.

“Community feedback will assist our deliberations next week when the Council meets to decide on which proposal to support, or whether we participate.”

Hard copies of the survey are available at the Council’s offices at Waiata House, 27 Lincoln Road, and Masterton District Library, 45 Chapel Street.

ENDS