Council last week confirmed how it proposed spending some of the money it will be receiving from the government as part of the Better Off programme associated with three waters reform.
Part of the transition to a new service delivery model for drinking, wastewater and stormwater services includes a $2.5 billion government funding package to support councils through the financial impacts of the shift. Palmerston North’s share of the Better off funding package is an $8.16 million payment this year and $24.48 million in 2024.
There were strict requirements for how this funding can be spent by local councils. This includes accelerating or enhancing already programmed and planned work that will benefit community wellbeing, or new projects not currently included in our 10-Year Plan.
Earlier this year, two workshops were held with elected members to identify and discuss options for inclusion in the funding proposal. There was a strong desire for supporting projects that will create a legacy for the city. In Council last week, elected members confirmed the following six projects for the proposal, ahead of the 30 September deadline:
The programme of projects is called Turuki Tūāora, which means “to progress the foundations of wellbeing”. It was named in conjunction with Rangitāne, with whom we’ve worked closely throughout the process.