Howick Ward Councillor Sharon Stewart is urging people to provide feedback on Auckland Council’s proposed Annual Budget that sets spending priorities for 2022-2023.
The budget focuses on three key issues – climate, budget pressures, and waste standardisation, and Councillor Stewart feels it’s important to hear what people think about these proposals.
“The budget proposes measures that impact our residents and ratepayers directly and it is crucial to hear their views. Their feedback will help us make the decisions that benefit the people.”
Budget Pressures
The Annual budget takes into account the financial implications and income loss created by COVID-19 and addresses how Auckland Council proposes to manage it.
“Projections for key economic indicators are looking a lot different to when the 10-year budget was agreed last year.
“Even though the council has made nearly $90 million in savings in the past year, the income losses are at a crucial level, and we are looking at ways that can help us achieve more for less.”
The budget proposes a number of measures including borrowing, asset recycling, and capital investment to ensure the Council can continue delivering its core services along with some major projects.
Climate
The proposal includes a targeted rate over the next 10 years towards Climate Action Package that will provide funding to respond to climate change while keeping the previously agreed average general rates increase at 3.5 per cent for 2022/2023.
The council is proposing a climate action targeted rate of $57 a year (or $1.10 a week for the median value residential property worth $1.18 million), rising in line with projected increases in average general rates each year.
The proposal would improve transport choice for over one million Aucklanders who will be living within 500 meters of new or improved bus services.
The proposed rate will also pay for projects to increase capability for walking and cycling and to increase tree canopy cover in communities that need it the most.
Waste standardisation
The Annual Budget proposes a move to a region-wide rates-funded rubbish collection service with a choice of three bin sizes to accommodate different household needs.
Standardised services and charges across the region will mean everyone pays the same for the same size bin no matter where you live, which is more equitable.
“From my regular conversations with local residents, I know they feel passionate about these issues. I would encourage people to have their views heard by providing feedback on our Annual Budget 2022/2023 and be a part of our decision-making process.”
The Annual Budget also includes the draft agreements of Howick Local Board that outline the local board’s priorities and plans for the 2022/2023 year.
Get involved
Consultation on the budget is open until 5 pm on 28 March. There are a number of ways for you to provide your feedback.
- Visit akhaveyoursay.nz/budget to read the proposal and give your feedback online.
- Visit one of the local libraries and fill out a feedback form
- Join our online event on Thursday 17 March from 6 pm - 8 pm to hear what’s being proposed, what it means for your local area and talk to your local elected members. Email howicklocalboard@aucklandcouncil.govt.nz to register and attend this event. Or check here for more events.
