![\"Western](\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/nz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/UMFVJ7SMXJAQJB2CF2XDHLUI6M.jpg\")
\nWestern Bay of Plenty Mayor James Denyer.<\/p>\n
Grass berms and median islands in the Western Bay will be mown more often, after a decision by the council this week.<\/p>\n
Western Bay of Plenty District councillors voted unanimously to increase roadside mowing in urban areas, between now and June 2026, to an average of 12 times a year.<\/p>\n
The increased level of service would cost an additional $225,000 this financial year.<\/p>\n
Earlier this year, the council decided to reduce roadside mowing from up to 16 times a year, to around six times a year, to save costs and avoid going over budget.<\/p>\n
\u201cThis was partly due to NZ Transport Agency providing less funding assistance than anticipated for some local road maintenance activities, including vegetation,\u201d the council said in a statement.<\/p>\n
Parks and reserves were unaffected as they were funded differently.<\/p>\n
Mayor James Denyer said the council decided to review this reduced mowing frequency, following dissatisfaction from the community about long grass and untidy berms.<\/p>\n
\u201cWe heard clearly from the community that they were not happy with the level of service we were providing, so we moved quickly to address this.\u201d<\/p>\n
Yesterday\u2019s decision aimed to strike a balance between affordability and public expectation, he said.<\/p>\n
\nWestern Bay of Plenty Mayor James Denyer.<\/p>\n
\u201cWe know people value well-kept streets and neighbourhoods, and that mowing plays a part in how places look, feel and function day to day.<\/p>\n
\u201cAt the same time, we need to be mindful of costs and make sure we\u2019re delivering services in a way that\u2019s fair and sustainable for ratepayers.\u201d<\/p>\n
The council said longer-term mowing frequency would be considered as part of next year\u2019s Annual Plan process, with any further agreed changes taking effect from July 1, when the new rates were set.<\/p>\n
Bringing mowing frequency back up to 2024\/25 levels (up to 16 times a year in urban areas) would require a 1%-2% rate increase, or sourcing $1 million to $1.5m from other areas.<\/p>\n
\u201cThis will be part of a broader conversation with the community \u2013 about the services the council provides, what matters most to people, and the choices involved in funding and prioritising them.\u201d<\/p>\n
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