Vincent budget up 12.8%

Vincent ratepayers are likely to face a 12.8 % increase in the ward component of their Central Otago rates this year.

The board held its estimates meeting in Alexandra yesterday and started the day with a proposed 17.3% increase but managed to trim its budget, finishing with a 12.8% rise.

Central Otago District Council management accountant Ainslie Wilson said most of the increase was due to the revaluation of utilities.

"I think we've done well to trim back the increase and we've worked hard to get that figure down to 12.8%," Vincent chairwoman Clair Higginson said after the meeting.

The board's budget will be included within the council's draft annual plan, which is open for public submissions in April.

The full council will meet next week to set accounts for district services and then ward differentials will be added to the general district rates.

Vincent ward is now the area formerly covered by the Alexandra and Earnscleugh-Manuherikia boards, including Alexandra, Clyde, Omakau, Ophir and Becks.

The budgeted income for the Molyneux Aquatic Centre for the coming year was $796,033 with expenditure of $857,125.

District aquatic centres manager Gary Easthope said the income from swim schools was likely to add $50,000 in the next year.

Board members asked if the staff budget could be trimmed but Mr Easthope said the operation was "reasonably lean" on staff.

The council was actively marketing the Alexandra Community Centre as a venue for hire, the board was told.

"The council is one of the worst offenders.

"It holds its functions elsewhere . . .

"Marketing starts in our own back yard," board member Graeme Bell said.

"Board members asked if priority could be given to using council facilities for functions, wherever possible.

"The board has allowed about $260,000 in the coming year for purchasing land for a proposed Clyde wastewater treatment plant.

"We have to be prepared for the time when we do need a wastewater system for Clyde, instead of thinking that some time in the future we'll need one," Ms Higginson said.

Last week, the Cromwell Community Board approved a 15% increase in the Cromwell rate component of the rates.

The Maniototo Community Board has recommended a 3.9% increase.

The Roxburgh Community Board will consider its budget and estimates on Thursday.