Integrated Tapanui Community Library & West Otago Community Centre

The Tapanui Community Library was constructed in 1966. Open 5 days a week and providing both library and council services, it is a well-used facility with high visitor numbers.

However, there is extensive renewal work required on the facility. The roof has developed leaks, it has rotted window frames, inadequate public toilet facilities and new carpets are needed. Space to provide programming and engagement is lacking, and accessibility is poor. The building is constructed predominantly of concrete block and is at only 10% of earthquake strength specification.

The West Otago Community Centre (WOCC) sits directly behind the library. To date, the WOCC Committee has invested almost $1 million for roof strengthening and replacement, and upgrading the theatre’s infrastructure and electrical and lighting systems. Further renewal work is required to replace the roof structure over the central part of the building, and to install a fire detection and alarm system.

Library staff are the primary point of contact for users of the facility on behalf of the WOCC committee, taking bookings, providing access and invoicing. Due to this close working relationship, the proximity of the two facilities, and the shared need for renewal work, it is feasible to incorporate the library into the WOCC to create an integrated community hub for the area.

Work to incorporate the library into the WOCC facility is expected to cost approximately $3 million, excluding landscaping costs. The WOCC committee has sought Council commitment to fund up to $2.5 million, with an expectation that the committee will raise the remainder of funds. The rating impact would commence in 2028/29 financial year.

If the integration project did not proceed, Council would need to scope the extensive renewal work needed for the existing Tapanui Library and the WOCC committee would likely seek further Council funding towards ongoing renewal work.

Concept and Floor Plans

Rating Impacts and Considerations

When you submit your feedback, let us know which option you support and why.

OptionsConsiderations
Option 1: I support funding of up to $2.5 million for the Integrated Tapanui Library and West Otago Community Centre, fully rated through UAGC across the district.Fully rated through UAGC (Uniform Annual General Charge) across the district, which is how Council rates all libraries.

The estimated rating impact for this option would be $16.80 (GST incl.) p/a across the district from the UAGC, commencing 2028/29.

Option 2: I support funding of up to $2.5 million for the Integrated Tapanui Library and West Otago Community Centre, partially rated under Libraries and partially rated under Community Centres.Partially rated:


  • 47% Libraries rate (which is fully funded through UAGC across the district).
  • 53% Community Centres rate (which is funded equally between UAGC and the West Otago Community of Services rating area).

The estimated rating impact from this option (commencing 2028/29) would be:


  • Properties in the West Otago community of services rating area: $47.90 (incl. GST)
  • Rest of district: $12.90 (incl. GST)

Option 3: I do not support the proposed funding of up to $2.5m for the Integrated Tapanui Library and West Otago Community Centre.No immediate rating impact.

Council would need to scope and decide on extensive renewal work for the existing library.

The WOCC committee will likely seek further funding toward the ongoing renewal work.

Other Key Topics for Consultation

  • Milton Centennial Pool

    We are considering not opening the Milton Centennial Pool for the 2026/27 season, for a few key reasons. Read more about this and let us know what you think.

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  • Voluntary Targeted Rates Scheme

    The Voluntary Targeted Rating (VTR) scheme allows Clutha District ratepayers to fund additional services that benefit them directly. Voluntary targeted rates are self-funding, meaning rates funding is not required.

    Council is considering recommencing the VTR scheme from 2026/27 for a few specific activities, and we want to know what you think.

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  • Rural Water Scheme Funding Changes

    Council is proposing to change the funding model for the rural water schemes in our district, by introducing Availability Charging and Assistance Capping. We would also need to amend our Revenue and Financing Policy.

    Read more 

  • Urban Water Rating Maps

    Urban water rating maps have been reviewed, and some minor changes have been made to ensure they reflect existing urban and some transition areas of the District Plan. The changes made also reflect urban growth.

    Within the urban water areas, a serviceability charge applies where water supply is available. This charge generally does not apply when a rating unit is being supplied by the network and a water rate is being charged.

    Property owners can review the maps and give us their feedback.

    View the Draft Urban Water Rating Maps booklet