KEY POINTS:
A dodgy bridge in Manurewa will still be fixed this year despite a decision to hold back on a rates increase, says the Manukau City Council.
This year's draft plan proposes a 4.9 per cent rates increase, compared to the 5.9 per cent in the city's long-term plan.
Mayor Len Brown said although the proposed 4.9 per cent rate was a reduced figure, it would not affect any of the council's planned projects including Manurewa's Beaumonts Bridge, which has poor alignments.
"It's a real dog-leg. There have been a number of accidents on that bridge over the years, and it needs to be looked at.
"That's a big project for us."
The council has set aside $10 million for work to be done on the bridge.
Mr Brown said the proposed rates figure is to cater to local people.
"This change is a reflection of our capital income.
"We want to develop Manukau City in a way that will not put our residents out of their homes."
The public has been given a chance to either support or oppose the reduced rates, with submissions now being accepted.
Wastewater charges will also be a priority for Manukau City Council, following a 13 to 17 per cent increase in water charges in the area, Mr Brown said.
"It's not sustainable for our community.
"I'm the one who has to justify that so we'll be having a big talk with WaterCare."
Other projects on the council's to-do list include a $5-7 million upgrade of Otara's Norman Kirk Memorial Swimming Pool and a $1.4 billion joint road project with the Auckland-Manukau eastern transport initiative (Ameti).
