Consultation on Auckland Council’s Emergency Budget is now open.
Aucklanders are being asked to have their say on two rates increase options; a rates rise of 2.5 per cent or a rates rise of 3.5 per cent.
North Shore Councillor Richard Hills stresses the need for the community to have their say.
“This consultation is one of the most important for people to be involved in,” says Councillor Hills, who is also chair of the council’s Environment and Climate Change Committee.
“We are looking at more than half a billion dollars in reduced revenue in the next financial year due to COVID-19, the lockdown, and the international recession. We will have to make really hard decisions to balance our budget over the next twelve months.
“Long term there is a real opportunity to reset our economy for the better and best position the North Shore and the wider region. Before that, it’s going to be tough.
“We’ve done our best to find the efficiencies that let us do more with less. This has achieved significant savings, but we need to find more. With less money coming in, there is less for the council facilities and services we use every day: parks, public transport, libraries, playgrounds, community facilities, and more.
“I encourage everyone on the North Shore to give their feedback to protect the things we love. It’s going to be tough, but we can work together to help the North Shore, and all of Tāmaki Makaurau, to recover.”
Auckland Council is also seeking feedback on the COVID-19 rates postponement scheme in the consultation.
“I really feel for the horrible position many people, families, and whānau are facing. For those who have lost loved ones and lost jobs and other sources of income, rates will be an additional form of stress right now.
“I urge you to please contact us if you are in need. We are developing targeted assistance and able to defer rates payments for those experiencing genuine hardship due to COVID-19. We seek to expand this package through this consultation.
“As a community we will get you through this.”
Consultation is open now until 19 June 2020. Visit akhaveyoursay.nz/emergency-budget to have your say.
