Deputy Mayor Bill Cashmore is urging Franklin residents to make their voices heard on Auckland Council’s Emergency Budget and help Auckland’s COVID-19 recovery.
Aucklanders are being asked for their feedback on options for rates increases for the next financial year as the council is hit with an expected half a billion dollars in lost income because of the COVID-19 crisis.
“This is the biggest challenge we have ever faced as a city and a council and this is the single most important consultation in Auckland’s history”, says Deputy Mayor and Franklin Ward Councillor Bill Cashmore.
“As we look towards our recovery from COVID-19, we now need to make tough decisions on how to balance our budget while still investing in the vital infrastructure Auckland needs to create jobs, stimulate our economy and maintain the local services Aucklanders rely on like our libraries, sports facilities and community halls,” he says.
“We’re looking at every way possible to save money and reduce expenditure, but the reality is the council will have to reduce its levels of service, to what extent depends on the feedback our community provides.
“Franklin has critical infrastructure and industries that are crucial to the region’s future recovery - from the water reservoirs in the Hunua Ranges, to the steel mill, agriculture and forestry - and continued investment in our urban and rural communities is vital to keep Franklin productive and Auckland moving.
“Now is the time for Franklin residents to tell us what they want. We have put before Aucklanders the choice between a 2.5 per cent or 3.5 per cent rates increase.
“Each choice comes with advantages and disadvantages and the Emergency Budget consultation document goes into further detail on what those mean for your local community and for Auckland as a whole.
“Despite the huge challenges ahead, we also need to look after our most vulnerable residents. The council is continuing to support Aucklanders facing economic hardship due to COVID-19 with decisive steps to allow residents and businesses options to defer or postpone rates and we want your views on our proposed COVID-19 rates postponement scheme.
"From Kawakawa Bay to Pukekohe to Clarks Beach we need Franklin to stand up and speak out on this budget and together we can build a Franklin for all to enjoy.”
Consultation is open now until 19 June. Visit akhaveyoursay.nz/emergency-budget to have your say.
