The Otago Regional Council’s (ORC) Draft Long-term Plan for 2021-31 (LTP) is now open for submissions.

The draft plan, which includes a proposed total rates increase of 47.5 per cent in year one, sets out an ambitious programme of improvements to meet the growing expectations for Otago’s environmental management. 

ORC chair Andrew Noone encouraged Otago residents to consider the consultation material and have their say.

The ORC is asking for feedback in three specific areas: biosecurity service levels and funding, how to balance the LTP budget, and how to spread the cost to rehabilitate Lake Hayes.

Read also: ‘Hefty’ rates increase in ORC long-term plan

“Our consultation document sets out what we’re aiming to do over the next ten years, and how we propose to pay for it,” Andrew said, adding that people can comment on any other aspect of the plan as well.

“Give the document a read and get your feedback through to us by 9 May – we’d love to hear thoughts on our plan for the future of Otago.”

Anyone can have their say online, through ORC’s YourSay platform, or by returning the freepost form included in the consultation document. The document will continue to arrive in letterboxes across Otago over the coming days.

Anyone who wants to speak to the council about their submission will be able to do so during hearings on May 20-21.

Find the YourSay page here.

PHOTO: Wanaka App