Hamilton City Council adopted its long-term plan yesterday, albeit by the narrowest of margins with councillors voting 7-6 in favour of the budget.
The vote followed lengthy heated debate and at one point, saw deputy mayor Gordon Chesterman walk out of the debating chamber.
Councillor Andrew King accused Mayor Julie Hardaker and Mr Chesterman of breaking their election promises to cap city debt at $440 million; staff had recommended the debt cap be broken in order to fund infrastructure needs based on Hamilton's growth.
"This time next year we will be preparing for another election and the voting public will have their say," said Mr King.
"In just over a year billboards will go up, pamphlets will go in letterboxes... social media will be running hot. Your names and how you have voted on this issue today, will be in lights for all to see.