With consultation on Auckland’s recovery budget, which sets rates levels, spending priorities and investment, set to close on 22 March, time is running out to have your voice heard.
Manukau ward councillors and the chairs of Māngere-Ōtāhuhu and Ōtara-Papatoetoe local boards are reminding south Aucklanders to have their say on the 10-year Budget which will shape the next decade for the city.
“We have got a few more days before the consultation on our recovery budget closes and there are some important topics we want to hear from you on.
“We want to make our services are more accessible to you. One of the proposals in that direction is the removal of late return fines on library books so that more people can use our libraries.”
“I would encourage you to go through the consultation document and make an informed decision.”
Fellow Councillor Efeso Collins says getting the public opinion from south Auckland on the Budget is crucial.
“This budget for the next 10 years covers all aspects of council delivery. This includes setting the rates levels along with our spending priorities and where we invest.
"We are proposing increasing capital investment to $31 billion over the next decade, a one-off rates increase of five per cent next year to offset the loss of income as a result of COVID-19 and an additional $150 million to combat climate change - there are big issues we need your feedback on.
“So we really need Manukau residents to have their say on the issues that will impact them over the next decade.”
Chair of Māngere-Ōtāhuhu Local Board Lemauga Lydia Sosene adds, “Delivering for our communities is our priority and we are continuing to advocate to the governing body for completion of Ōtāhuhu Transformation project as well as the development of Māngere East.
“We know these are difficult times for everyone, but getting your feedback would mean that we have got our priorities right.”
Have your say
So far nearly 8000 people and groups have submitted their opinions and ideas since the consultation opened on 22 February.
Visit akhaveyoursay.co.nz/recoverybudget to have your say by 22 March.
