

The work of local government is funded mainly by property taxes in the local area, known as rates. This makes up around 60% of council expenditure, with the rest coming from user charges, investment income, regulatory fees and roading subsidies. Councils can also borrow money to spread the cost of large investments such as infrastructure over a longer period of time.

The work of local government is funded mainly by property taxes in the local area, known as rates. This makes up around 60% of council expenditure, with the rest coming from user charges, investment income, regulatory fees and roading subsidies. Councils can also borrow money to spread the cost of large investments such as infrastructure over a longer period of time.
Commit to transparent communication and community engagement regarding any rate changes to build trust and understanding.
Scrutinise council expenditures rigorously to prevent wasteful spending and promote financial responsibility.
Limit rates strictly to public goods and natural monopolies and end funding of private goods or social engineering.
Cut council waste and debt by focusing only on essential services rather than speculative projects or vanity investments.
Ensure transparent finances so ratepayers see clearly what is spent, why, and whether it fits the council's proper role.
Commit to transparent communication and community engagement regarding any rate changes to build trust and understanding.
Scrutinise council expenditures rigorously to prevent wasteful spending and promote financial responsibility.
Limit rates strictly to public goods and natural monopolies and end funding of private goods or social engineering.
Cut council waste and debt by focusing only on essential services rather than speculative projects or vanity investments.
Ensure transparent finances so ratepayers see clearly what is spent, why, and whether it fits the council's proper role.
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