Local facilities have provided myriad benefits to locals during the uncertain times of the COVID-19 pandemic.
This recovery budget focuses on and prioritises spending on facilities that Aucklanders benefit from at a local level says Albert-Eden-Puketāpapa ward Councillor Cathy Casey.
“Our local libraries are much-loved community hubs. They need ongoing care and maintenance, which requires funding. As our communities grow, we need to ensure our assets, such as libraries, continue to meet the changing needs of Aucklanders,” Cr. Casey says.
“Our research confirms that even if people don’t physically walk in through the library door, they still get value from library services.”
Read how Aucklanders use and value council amenities here.
There are four libraries in the Albert-Eden-Puketāpapa ward at Epsom, Mt Albert, Mt Roskill and Pt Chevalier serving a population of 165,000. Visitor numbers locally have remained steady at above 30,000 each month over the last five years.
With ongoing housing development, the Albert-Eden-Puketāpapa area is set to welcome many more residents. This will increase the need for community services provided by the council.
“Community services such as those delivered by Auckland Libraries help ensure our diverse communities are socially connected so we can all can cope better with crises like COVID-19 or negative environmental change. Our Recovery Budget notes the shortfall of $800m for council facilities maintenance over the next 10 years and we need your help to be smarter about the way we provide the services that you value,” Cr. Casey says
Cr. Casey is urging people to provide their feedback and have their say on this and the other key issues raised in the Recovery Budget consultation which is now open.
Have your say
Have your say at akhaveyoursay.nz
The consultation closes at 12pm (noon) on 22 March 2021.
