Councillors back regional events fund | Wairarapa News | Local News in Wairarapa

The Wellington Regional Amenities Fund has gained the support of most Masterton District councillors, who say public need to be better educated to make an informed decision.

The proposal asks councils in the Wellington region to contribute to a pool of $2 million to fund regional events and attractions that are significant or beneficial to the region.

The fund would increase by $250,000 each year until a cap imposed by the Mayoral Forum is reached.

At Wednesday's full council meeting, Mayor Garry Daniell said the public needed to be more aware of how much contributing to the fund was going to affect them.

One of the major changes to the original proposal is using a funding formula based on distance from Wellington.

Mr Daniell said the distance differential had made a noticeable effect on the ratepayer, and the proposal has come down to an acceptable level.

Councillor Gary Caffell said the increase was relatively minuscule, at $1.64 per property for the first year.

"I've had one or two people get hold of me very upset we're even going to support it," Mr Caffell said.

Councillor Lyn Patterson said the change in the funding plan had made a huge difference; "it's a lot less than what it was originally".

Councillors agreed the proposal would be incorporated into the Long Term Plan for community consultation early next year.