Hamilton should say no to a 16.5% rates rise

Stuff reports:

Residents on the east-side of the river may find themselves giving but not receiving following a proposed 16.5 per cent rates hike from the Hamilton City Council.

Million-dollar developments look set to benefit while property owners and renters will pay the price.

Families can’t afford a 16.5% rates rise. Councils should aim for rates increases around the level of general inflation. Otherwise a higher and higher proportion of their take home pay goes on rates.

Presented in the mayor’s budget was $860 million allocated to open up the southern Peacocke development to developers, $220m for transportation and $80m for community and city investment.

Current ratepayers should not be paying for a huge new development. Any costs around that development should be targeted on those who buy properties there.