Palmerston North is joining other local councils in calling for an increase in rates rebates available for low income earners. Whanganui's remit argues the scheme, which entitles ratepayers with a household income of up to $25,660 to a rates rebate of up to $640, has not kept pace with the widening gap between incomes and rates. READ MORE:* Horowhenua ratepayers in financial strife are urged to contact council* Productivity Commission recommends scrapping rates rebate scheme* Thousands of dollars in rates rebates unclaimed by Horowhenua householdsThe scheme is administered by councils, and paid for through the Department of Internal Affairs. Mayor Grant Smith said of the remits put forward by the Whanganui District Council, the call for a more generous rates rebate scheme was one he particularly supported. The proposal runs counter to a recommendation from the Productivity Commission, which has recommended the Government should scrap the rates rebate scheme.

Source: Stuff June 27, 2020 23:37 UTC