ARC welcomes inquiry report

ARC Chairman Michael Lee has welcomed the Government rating inquiry recommendations and the report's emphasis on containing local government expenditure and gaining efficiencies for ratepayers.

"David Shand and the members of the inquiry panel have done an excellent job and produced a superb report," he says.

"As I expected the report is heavyweight and the panel's recommendations will have profound implications for the future management of local government in New Zealand.

"The ARC recognises the importance of carefully considering the impact of any increased expenditure on ratepayers.

"We have worked very hard to contain rate increases to below 5 per cent in recent years.

"I also welcome the inquiry's recommendations that aim to increase transparency around local authority expenditure.

"All of the recommendations in the report require careful consideration and many of the recommendations will require legislative change.

"We intend to work through a comprehensive response to the final report in the near future."

"In summary, this means relief at last for long suffering ratepayers."

ENDS

© Scoop Media