Rates Rebate policies update

Greetings

This is a short update about a number of rates rebate schemes or rates policies available to low income ratepayers who CANNOT AFFORD to pay their local authority annual rates.

Councils Across Auckland

A) We have contacted all Council's across the Auckland region and asked for information related to ratepayers on low/fixed incomes who CANNOT AFFORD to pay their annual rates (a separate issue from ratepayers who voluntarily withhold payment under the rates revolt banner).

B) All Councils have responded and information will be forwarded in due course.

Central Government

C) We intend to arrange a meeting with WINZ management to find out more about Cullen's recent Budget announcement and gauge the level of support for struggling ratepayers (I understand that WINZ officers have not received official papers from Government to date).

Community Groups

D) Grey Power will contribute to the Rates Rebate Newsletter (Don Chapman, National Vice-Pres.) and will post a copy of the quarterly magazine to us which will include advice for members (which we will pass on to you).

Don will also send a motion passed by Grey Power's national board. I expect to receive this around early June.

E) Residents Action Movement (RAM) will be asked to contribute to the newsletter.

SUMMARY

The Rates Rebate Newsletter aims to give a summary account of Councils' expectations and contact details, relevant Government assistance, and information from community groups.

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