Question marks were still hanging over some of the projects within the Otago Regional Council's long-term plan yesterday, with one having to be delayed.
For the second year in a row, the council's long-term plan discussions have been dominated by big-ticket expenditure items - last year it was contributing to funding the stadium, this year it was its proposed waterfront building.
However, this year the council also faced additional issues in adopting its long-term council community plan.
The major problem is the lack of funding confirmation from the New Zealand Transport Agency (NZTA) for a new targeted rate to enhance public transport in Queenstown.
Cr Duncan Butcher said is was "very disappointing" the Queenstown initiative had been caught up in a change of government and a change in government policy.
The council had an assurance from the NZTA it would have some information on funding to meet the long-term plan deadline by yesterday, but that had not come, he said.
"It is disappointing we can't or haven't got a feel for whether the money is available."
It was hoped by August the council would have a better idea.
Until then, the proposed targeted rate would be withheld.
While no consent decision was out on the Shotover Delta works, it had been decided to strike that rate as there was still work to be done in the area.
Cr Butcher said the decision-making process had been dragging on and it had been given an indication a decision would be out by now.
The council adopted its long-term plan, with a 1% general rate rise, plus a targeted rate for its Clean Heat, Clean Air programme and one to fund its contribution to Forsyth Barr Stadium.
It also confirmed it would undertake a review of the classification of the Taieri flood and drainage schemes and delay the work on a pump at Henley.
Cr Stephen Woodhead said despite all the big projects, the plan included "core" business like water quality and air quality work and funding of organisations like the Regional Rescue Helicopter and Animal Health Board.
Another adjustment had been made due to the bus tendering process coming in $1.6 million less than provided for in the draft plan and the city loop being discontinued.
As a result, the transport rate was remaining at the 2008-09 level of $3.4 million rather than $3.7 million.
The balance was being credited to the transport reserve, which could be used to smooth out future fare increases.
