Aucklanders are being urged to have their say on the council’s 2020/2021 annual budget before consultation window closes next week.
So far, over 1800 people and groups have submitted their opinions and ideas since the consultation opened on 21 February. The main topics for consultation are:
- a proposed increase to the waste management targeted rate to cover the recycling revenue shortfall
- a proposed change to the way we charge for pool fencing inspections
- a proposed increase to refuse rates for former Auckland City and Manukau City ratepayers
- a proposed increase to the targeted rate for the Waitakere rural sewerage service
Around 30 events have already taken place, and more opportunities are planned to take place across the region for Aucklanders to have their say in person before the consultation closes on 22 March.
“We have heard from a wide range of Auckland’s diverse communities – from individuals, resident’s groups and business leaders – we’ve heard about the things that matter to them.” Says Finance and Performance Committee Chair Councillor Desley Simpson.
“But we are urging the people who we’ve not heard from to get online, attend an event or pop along to your local library, council service centre or local board office and complete a feedback form, to let us know what you think.
"It’s incredibly important when we are making decisions about how we run our region, both now and in the future, that we reflect the views of Aucklanders.”
In addition to the annual budget consultation, Aucklanders also have the chance to comment on the independent review of Council-Controlled Organisations .
Mayor Phil Goff says:
“Ten years since the supercity was formed is an appropriate time to independently examine whether the current model is the best way to deliver services, whether that model can be improved to address any shortcomings found, or whether more fundamental change is needed.”
The review, being led by an independent panel, is focused on establishing how well the Council-Controlled Organisations (CCO) themselves, are working and how appropriate the CCO model is for both now and the future.
Consultation on the 2020/2021 annual budget is open until 22 March 2020. Feedback can be given online at akhaveyoursay.nz, by emailing akhaveyoursay@aucklandcouncil.govt.nz or at one of the many events being run across the region.
Details of forthcoming events can be found at akhaveyoursay.nz
Feedback forms and supporting information will also be available at libraries, local board offices and service centres or can be requested by emailing akhaveyoursay@aucklandconcil.govt.nz or calling 09 301 0101.
Following consultation, all feedback will be considered, and our Annual Budget 2020/2021 will be adopted in June. Our decisions will be widely communicated, and a feedback summary report will be available online from the end of May.
