The Ratepayers’ Alliance is today publicly
offering to fund an independent economist to work with the
Mayor, Finance Chair, and Council officials to plug the
reported $1b hole in the Council’s finances. Ratepayers’
Alliance spokeswoman, Monique Poirier,
said:
“It's clear the Council’s finances
are much worse than first thought. In Wellington, Treasury
is telling us that the economic bounce back is much better
than what was anticipated earlier in the year. It sends
alarm bells that, despite the stronger than expected
economy, the Council is only now coming to grips with the
crisis.”
“Rather than just oppose, we’re
offering to help. The Alliance will pay for an independent
economist to work on behalf of ratepayers and with officials
to find savings and cut wasteful
spending.”
“During the first COVID lock-down Mayor
Goff reportedly turned down offers of assistance from
respected businesspeople, including Business Hall of Fame
member, Sir Ralph Norris, to help. With this week's shock
announcement, it’s time the Mayor took up the offers of
help.”
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