Councillors John Watson and Wayne Walker are inviting Albany ward residents to join them for conversations on Auckland Council’s Annual Budget.
John and Wayne will attend a number of community feedback events across the Albany ward between now and when the consultation closes on 17 March.
The draft Annual Budget sets Auckland Council’s budget for the upcoming 2019/20 financial year. Consultation is focusing on issues around rates, growth and local priorities, but the councillors will also seek feedback on the following topics:
- Rating of religious use properties
- Changes to some targeted rates
- Increases to some fees to maintain cost recovery
Both councillors would also like to discuss Auckland's water future, including where Auckland will get its water from in the future and how we can stop our beaches, harbours and streams from becoming polluted and fix the damage already done.
Councillor Watson says the face-to-face events are a great way to hear from people on the issues as they see them.
“I like to hear first-hand from our residents on what they care about and what they want to see more of in the future.
“As much as these conversations are about council's Annual Budget, we are also keen to hear about anything that people think is important in their communities,” says Watson.
Councillor Wayne Walker agrees and says gaining local perspectives is vital to achieving the things that matter most for locals.
“Local ideas, views and concerns are invaluable in helping shape the future of our area and influencing what gets prioritised,” says Walker.
“I value any conversations with residents and look forward to talking with as many of you as possible over the coming weeks.”
Feedback on the Annual Budget can be given online at akhaveyoursay.nz, by emailing akhaveyoursay@aucklandcouncil.govt.nz, or at any of the 'Have your say' event being held across the region.
Feedback forms and supporting information is also available at local libraries, local board offices and council service centres.
After the consultation has closed, all feedback will be considered and the 2019/2020 Annual Budget will be adopted in June. Decisions will be widely communicated and a summary report will be made available online.
Albany ward residents are invited to join their councillors and attending local board members at any of the following times and locations:
Albany Village Library
- Saturday 2 March, 10am-2pm
Whangaparāoa Library
- Saturday 9 March, 10am-11am
Ōrewa Library
- Saturday 9 March 12pm-1pm
East Coast Bays Library (Browns Bay)
- Sunday 10 March 10am-11am
