Dear Friends,

There are now less than two weeks before voting papers arrive in letterboxes across the Howick Ward and entire Auckland Region.

Following on from our previous newsletter on improving sports field drainage and providing quality community facilities, here are two more local issues that we will tackle as your representatives on the Auckland Council.

Changing the unfair wastewater charges:

Wastewater charges have been a significant problem for a lot of ratepayers. We have always pushed for, and voted for, a fairer method of charging so that wastewater charges are based on your water use. The current fixed $400 charge results in low water users subsidising high water users. That’s not fair.

We have a strong track record on water, having just successfully led the debate to hold Manukau Water’s residential prices at 2008 levels. Hard work has meant that Manukau Water’s prices have not increased for two years. We are proud of this achievement.

We will work just as hard to make policy changes in the area of wastewater. With the disbanding of Manukau we have a real opportunity to make much needed changes. Ratepayers should only have to pay for the wastewater service they use. The fairest method of charging for wastewater is on usage.

Re-sanding Little Bucklands Beach for future generations:

We know that Little Bucklands Beach is in need of attention. Erosion has taken a toll on the beach over many years and “Little Bucks” is not the beach that it once was. Re-sanding works are needed to make the beach more usable for the local community and restore this natural resource to its former glory.

Citizens & Ratepayers Councillors and Pakuranga Community Board Members successfully achieved funding and support for a boardwalk between Little Bucklands Beach and Half Moon Bay this year. We will put the same effort into convincing the new Mayor of Auckland and Auckland Councillors to support re-sanding of Little Bucklands Beach. We cannot allow erosion to destroy this local and natural asset any further.

The new Council will have a significant role in maintaining beach water quality and combating erosion. Citizens & Ratepayers has a strong record across Auckland of controlling erosion, resanding and looking after key beaches. With your support we will fight for resources for Little Bucklands Beach.

Best wishes,

Dick Quax

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