Official Information Request - 6 July 2018

Sent: Friday, 20 July 2018 9:25 a.m.

Subject: TRIM: LGOIMA request - unpaid rates

I refer to your email of 6 July 2018 requesting information on unpaid rates, and reply below as per your email:

How much is owed to the Rotorua Lakes Council in unpaid rates as at the end of the 2018 rating year and how does this compare to the previous five years (broken down by year please).

Unpaid rates per year for each of the rating years ending 30 June:

2018 - $2,410,142

2017 - $2,251,961

2016 - $2,363,065

2015 - $2,449,299

2014 - $2,376,171

2013 - $2,684,569

How much is owed to the end of June 2018?

As above

How many properties does this relate to?

As at 5 July 2018, 2267 properties were in rates arrears. With rates constantly being repaid and new instalments due, this figure varies depending on the time of year the information is requested.

What is the most owed on one single property and how far do those rates date back?

As of 5 July 2018, $94,019.07 is owned by one property dating back to 14 July 2012

How many property owners has the council taken action against for unpaid rates?

As noted above, rates arrears are constantly being repaid and new instalments added. Because this is changing all the time we cannot confirm how many owners we have taken action against at any one time. As provided, there are currently 2267 properties with rates arrears.

What has this action involved?

In the first instance attempts are made to contact the ratepayer to arrange payments. Failing this the rates team progressively work through other options such as mortgagee demand or engaging a debt collection company. If nothing can be achieved going through the above processes the final option is to go through court proceedings for a rating sale.

As per the Act, we are obliged to advise that you may contact the Ombudsman at the address below if you have any concerns with the response provided by Council, by writing to:

The Office of the Ombudsman

PO Box 10 152

WELLINGTON 6143

Alternatively, you may email info@ombudsman.parliament.nz or use the online complaints form available at www.ombudsman.parliament.nz/make-a-complaint.

Regards