Today’s rates shock is set to be repeated

Press release: ACT New Zealand
July 15, 2015. 12:45pm

“Today’s confirmed rate rises of over 40% for some Aucklanders are the result of a council with completely unrealistic ideas about its role,” says ACT Leader David Seymour.

“The purpose of local government should be to provide affordable infrastructure allowing New Zealanders to get on with building, working, and living.

“Unfortunately Auckland Council is determined to rack up debt by role playing as a city state, complete with diplomatic missions and countless unelected, generously-funded authorities and advisory panels.

“It’s the task of repaying this debt, set to rise from $4.8 billion to $12.5 billion within 10 years, that has resulted in today’s dismaying news for ratepayers.

“Rate shocks, cost-overruns, and infrastructure deficits will continue until there is a major culture change within Council.

“We could force this culture change by returning rating power to local boards, making elected representatives accountable to local voters for local spending. This would rein in the Council’s most excessive spending projects and allow Aucklanders to better target their vote towards those who respect ratepayer dollars.”

ENDS

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