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Last modified: 29 Jul 2020 10:23am

Two children, in brightly coloured caps climb a hillside with a view of valley and mountains behind

Consultation has opened on the Council's Draft Annual Plan for 2020/21.

Our key proposals are set out in the consultation document – Here’s the plan … have your say – which is now available online.

The document includes six key issues that we are seeking the community’s feedback on, plus information on the range of projects and developments planned for the coming 12 months. It also outlines the impact on rates from these proposals.

Key things you should know

Covid-19 changes things

This plan was mostly developed over the past six months – before the impact of Covid-19 became clear. We know that the world is changing dramatically and we are living in uncertain times.

We’re very aware that the pandemic is having a disruptive effect on the Selwyn community and economy. As a result, it’s right for us to take another look at our plans and proposals. Our focus will change and some of the projects we previously saw as priorities will now be less important. We’d like feedback on how our priorities might change.

Times will be tough for some

We also know that as the Selwyn economy is affected by the pandemic, many households and businesses may be facing difficulties. Because of this the Council wants to hear the community’s views on what level of rates increase is acceptable.

The annual plan originally proposed an average 3.5% rate increase, in line with the 2018–2028 Long Term Plan, but the Council will now seek feedback on options to reduce this. Options include a rates freeze, with 2020/21 rates held at the same level as the current year, or an increase somewhere between 0% and 3.5%, depending on savings that can be identified.

We want your feedback and ideas

The consultation process gives you the chance to tell us what you like in our Draft Annual Plan, things we might do differently – and where our priorities might need to change, especially in these challenging times. We invite new ideas and new thinking, and ask that you consider how you see Selwyn developing over the next 30 years, but with immediate focus on 2020/21.

Covid-19 restrictions mean we can’t run the sort of consultation programme we usually do – information and consultation options are mostly available online. At this stage we also don’t know what form public hearings will take. We’ll provide updates if things change.

It's all online

You can find out more at our YourSay Selwyn site including:

  • Details on our consultation proposals
  • Information on planned projects
  • Information on costs and rates impacts
  • Submission forms
Key dates
  • 22 April Consultation opens
  • 22 May  Consultation closes, 5pm
  • 2–3 June  Public hearings (if possible under COVID-19 restrictions)
  • 11–12 June Council deliberations
  • 24 June Council formally adopts Annual Plan