Environment Southland is asking residents and businesses to share their views on proposed changes to council fees and charges for 2026-27.
The council has completed a comprehensive review of its Fees and Charges Schedule, aiming to improve transparency and ensure alignment with current legislation and council bylaws.
Most fees will increase by 2.5% under the proposal, with all charges set on a cost recovery basis. This means people pay for the services they actually use, rather than funding them through general rates.
Environment Southland Chair Jeremy McPhail said the council is committed to ensuring fees and charges are both transparent and fair.
"This review not only brings our schedule in line with the latest legislative requirements but also ensures that those who benefit most from Council services contribute their share," McPhail said.
"The annual charges paid by consent holders directly support the administration, monitoring, research, and management of their consents, supporting good science, effective oversight, and sustainable practices that benefit consent holders and the wider community."
The updated approach is designed to reduce the council's reliance on general rates while ensuring fairness for service users. Essential council activities will be funded more directly by those who use them.
McPhail emphasised the importance of public input in the consultation process.
"I can't emphasise enough how helpful it is for people and businesses to give us feedback on the schedule. Your input is essential to our decision making and managing cost recovery in a way that is both fair and effective."
The proposed schedule includes a summary of all changes and is available for public consultation until Thursday 21 May 2026. The council welcomes submissions and feedback from all interested parties.
After consultation closes, submitters will have the opportunity to present their views to a hearing panel. A final Fees and Charges Schedule will then be adopted and take effect from 1 July 2026.
The full proposed schedule and consultation details are available at www.haveyoursay.es.govt.nz, or by contacting the council office directly.