FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

26 September 2013

Support small business-friendly candidates in the 2013 local body elections

Now that voters have received their papers for the 2013 local body elections, they should consider which candidates will back small businesses when deciding who to vote for, the Motel Association of New Zealand (MANZ) says.

Small businesses such as motels are the lifeblood of many of our communities but all too often do not get the support and encouragement they need from local authorities, MANZ Chief Executive Michael Baines says.  

“It’s still a tough operating environment for many, and increasingly we’ve found our members are being put under pressure by greedy local authorities who view motels and other small businesses purely as a source of revenue,” Mr Baines says.

“Far too many councils continue to increase rates and other compliance costs well above the rate of inflation, so we’re calling on voters to support candidates who will nurture businesses, not tax them.”

For New Zealand’s economy to grow it needs to foster small businesses, and local bodies can play a vital role in this by minimising the hassle, delays and cost of compliance, in addition to keeping a tight lid on rates increases.

Most motels are owner-operated, so the money they make is usually reinvested back into the community in the form of local goods, services and wages.

“By encouraging small businesses to succeed, we will add wealth to our communities. So vote for the candidate who will ensure that your council is small business-friendly,” Mr Baines says. 

“Think local, think small business in these elections.”

ENDS

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