Time is running out for West Aucklanders to have their say on an Emergency Budget that will have significant impacts in our communities, say Waitākere Ward Councillors Linda Cooper and Shane Henderson.
You can have your say on Auckland Council’s proposed Emergency Budget until 19 June.
Revenue fall
The council is predicting a fall in revenue of $525 billion due to COVID-19. This loss of revenue puts at risk the services that the council provides to Aucklanders and its ability to invest in much-needed infrastructure.
This means that Auckland Councillors have some tough decisions to make and it is important for Aucklanders to make these decisions together.
“This proposed budget asks Aucklanders to choose between a rate rise of 2.5 or 3.5 per cent. We know this is not an easy task,” says Councillor Henderson
“For an average value Auckland home, a 3.5 per cent rate increase will add $1.83 per week to the average rates bill, while a 2.5 per cent increase would add $1.35 per week. It may not seem like it, but these small changes can have a large impact on services in our communities.
“Even at a 3.5 per cent rise, we will have to reduce or temporarily cut some of our services. At a 2.5 rates increase, this results in more drastic changes for the West”
Feedback is crucial
Councillor Cooper agrees.
“There’s no simple solution, your feedback is crucial to help us to make the best decisions we can for you. We must keep in mind what is most important for the future of our community, our city and our economy,” she says.
“We have some difficult decisions ahead of us. Some capital investment in infrastructure such as for walking and cycling and town centre redevelopment will need to be deferred. There will also be changes to how council runs services for the community.
Community facilities
“The Waitākere Ward has a significant number of community facilities. There are 440 local parks, 93 public toilets, 20 community places and eight libraries that the council runs in the West that are all well used and relied on by the community.
“Some council run activities and facilities may need to be scaled back, temporarily operate on reduced hours or be halted for a short time. If you value these services, we want to hear from you,” says Councillor Cooper.
“We want a clear steer from West Aucklanders so we can go into bat for you. Together, we can play our part and protect the public services that we value the most. Please give us your feedback on this budget before it closes later this week,” says Councillor Henderson.
Have Your Say
Consultation on the Emergency Budget closes on 19 June.
Don’t miss the opportunity to have your say, visit AKhaveyoursay.nz/emergency-budget to give feedback.
