Editorial: Neighbour support in funding strife

Neighbourhood Support in Rotorua is in trouble - financially that is.

That should come as no real surprise with many organisations struggling to keep their services going as the funding dollar dries up, and many peoples' ability to be generous when it comes to annual appeals now severely restricted.

As we report today, Neighbourhood Support Rotorua says it could be in debt before the end of next year if funding from the city's district council isn't increased.

It budgeted about $100,000 for the coming financial year and is asking the Rotorua District Council for $75,000 annually for the next three years, $25,000 a year more than it has been getting.

For many years, organisations like this have been providing services which many might believe should be government-funded and Neighbourhood Support won't be the only local service asking for the council's help.

Its services have undoubtedly made a huge difference to many people and it would be a great shame to see it disappear.

The challenge for our council, as it sets its budget for the coming years, is balancing needs with wants and attempting to minimise rates rises. Ultimately, not everyone will get what they want. The best we can hope for is that council's decisions will be based on the greatest good.

WHAT DO YOU THINK?

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