When the new kerbside collection service is introduced in September 2023 we will no longer collect rubbish and recycling from commercial areas, and some properties that do not currently receive a kerbside collection (like private roads, private lanes and right-of-ways), will start to receive this service.

These changes mean we need to make changes to our Policies on the Remission and Postponement of Rates (Policies) to ensure that properties are only charged for the kerbside collection service when it is available to them.

What was proposed

Our Policies on the Remission and Postponement of Rates is the document that sets out how and when Council can remit or postpone payment on rates.

We proposed to add a policy into this document that will allow us to remit:

• 10 months worth of kerbside collection rates for those in commercial areas. These are properties that currently receive the kerbside collection service, but will no longer be eligible for it from September. The remission means they will only be charged for the two months (July and August) that they receive this service. 
• 2 months worth of kerbside collection rates for those on private roads, private lanes and right-of-ways. These are properties that currently do not receive the kerbside collection service, but will be eligible for it from September. The remission means they will only be charged for the 10 months (from September) that they receive this service.

While we're making changes to the policies, also took the opportunity to make some minor housekeeping changes. 

What you told us

Thank you to all those who took the time to make a submission during the consultation period in March - April 2023. 

We received 11 submissions on the draft Policies - you can view them here.

The following themes were identified from the feedback received:

• Some submitters commented that there should be a provision for those who already employ a rubbish collection and will also be charged for the Council rubbish collection in their rates.
• There should be a remission of rates on land and buildings used by clubs, incorporated societies, and voluntary organisations.
• The policy on the remission of small rates balances should be increased (currently to qualify for remission under this part of the policy, the rating unit must have a balance of less than one dollar. A submitter suggested lifting this threshold to $25 to justify any administration costs.
• A submission requested that rates for Morrinsville Swimzone should only be charged from March to November as they are closed during this time.

Hearing

A hearing was held on 3 May 2023 where submitters could choose to present their submission to Council in person. There were no submitters who chose to speak on the Policies. Following this, Council asked staff for further information to assist in their deliberations, and deliberations and decision-making was held at a Council meeting on 24 May 2023.

Council Decision

Council resolved at the Council meeting on 24 May 2023 to adopt the Policies as consulted on. This will allow Council to remit rates as a result of changes to the kerbside collection service to commence in September 2023.

Council’s Policies on the Postponement and Remission of Rates will be effective from 1 July 2023.

Policies on the Remission and Postponement of Rates document

• Existing Policies on the Remission and Postponement of Rates
• Changes to kerbside collections
• Changes to commercial rubbish collection