OPINION: Debate about next year's rates rise in Palmerston North has been injected with a last-minute proposal to make things more interesting – the idea of changing the city's flag. READ MORE:* Palmerston North could adopt green and white theme for a flag* Palmerston North hosts animated flag debate* Quorum equals mayor, 15 councillors and a babyThe huge increases in the land values of homes in the city's more modest suburbs have potential to see the rates of the poorest ratepayers rise the most, to an extent that councillors have decided would not be fair and reasonable. It explores the flag idea pitched to the council within days of it signing off on its draft budget and supporting material. They are not pushing Foster's design in particular, but putting out an invitation to have Palmerston North's own flag debate. MURRAY WILSON/STUFF The Palmerston North coat of arms might not be the greatest inspiration for a flag.

Source: Stuff March 17, 2019 17:26 UTC