Rates

It seems I was wrong when I wrote that the Auckland Council would need to find savings or borrow $43 million in order to meet the mayor’s stated aim to have a rate increase of no more than 4.9% this year. I have been informed that the Council needs to find $62 million. I will say it again Council needs to make savings in its budget not borrow to meet day-to-day expenditure.
I will support borrowing but only for long-term infrastructure. While you take out a mortgage to buy your house, you don’t borrow to buy the furniture and groceries.

Howick as a Growth Node

Recently I became aware that the Auckland Council was again considering Howick for high-density apartment complexes. Since then a number of people have contacted me expressing their concern that the iconic Howick village will resemble parts of downtown Auckland such a Hobson Street. I also note that Howick was described as “market ready” which has changed to “market potential”. In the end, it all comes down to the same thing Council is trying to radically change the way Howick looks and feels.

Make sure that you have your say on our future by visiting www.theaucklandplan.govt.nz

Rotary Walkway

The extension to the Rotary Walkway seemed to have stalled so I asked Council what was happening and I was informed that the tenders for the project are being evaluated and work on the walkway will begin shortly. This will create a walkway from Pigeon Mountain reserve and wetlands to the Panmure Bridge.