Decision on rates looms

Councillors voted at last month's meeting to continue applying differential rates, which were introduced in 2008-09 to maintain the distribution of the rate burden between vacant and improved residential, commercial and industrial properties following revaluation.

"The City is keen to promote and encourage the development of vacant land," a council document said.

This can be done by discouraging the holding of vacant land with a higher differential rate.

With the proposed rates, minimum fees for improved residential lots will increase from $797 to $828, with a minimum of $845 for vacant residential lots, and all commercial and industrial lots.

Public submissions close at 4.30pm on Monday, June 15, which the council will consider before making its final decision at the June 23 meeting.