Aucklanders are being reminded that it is not too late to have a say in the Auckland Council Recovery Budget, with five days remaining until feedback is closed on 22 March 2021.
“Now is a good time for our community to consider what they might miss out on if the proposed 5 per cent rates increase for this first year doesn’t pass,” explains Scott Milne, Ōrākei Local Board Chair.
“Due to the huge budget loss from the economic effects of COVID-19, at only 3.5 per cent rates increase our communities will see a clear drop in service levels, projects will continue to be deferred and no new projects initiated.
“Much of the feedback we have received to date is in support of the 5 per cent rates increase, which is being proposed only for the first year and reverts to the 3.5 per cent thereafter. Residents are keen for greater certainty of funding, they understand that the rates increase will result in seeing water quality improvement projects underway, and renewals continue, but not enough of our community are getting online and providing this feedback. All input is important, whether they tell us they agree or not.”
Over 8000 Aucklanders, individuals, and groups, have registered feedback on the proposed Recovery Budget. With only three days left for public input to be collected, Auckland Council is promoting a final push to ensure that the good ideas and important feedback is collected in time to be considered in the Long-term Plan.
“We encourage you to have a say on the Auckland Council Recovery Budget consultation. All you need is five minutes, and you have five days in which to do it. Help guide the decision makers and let’s build a brighter future for our city.”
The remaining opportunity to discuss this directly with board members is at the Ellerslie Community Day, Saturday 20 March from 12pm
Public feedback is open until midday, Monday 22 March 2021.
The full Consultation Document and supporting information along with feedback forms are available at akhaveyoursay.nz/recoverybudget and are available at service centres, libraries and the local board office, or by phoning 09 301 0101.
