ACT Launches Rates Direct Mail Campaign

Garry Mallett, Party President
Monday, 7 August 2006
Press Releases - Local Government

Garry Mallett, ACT's party president, has launched a website and direct mail campaign to encourage ratepayers to actively support limiting increases in local body rates.

"This campaign, by supporting Rodney Hide's Bill to cap rates, aims to make local government more accountable to communities", Mr Mallett said.

"We have been inundated with offers of help and support, so have launched a website at www.limitrates.org.nz to make it easy for people to get more information about Rodney Hide's proposal, and let their voice be heard.

"We are encouraging ratepayers to help our campaign by donating money and letting us send out letters on their behalf.

"The letters explain what the Bill would do, how people can voice their opposition to rates hikes, and include both a donation form for more letters and a card which can be sent to Parliament.

"Kiwis around the country have been shocked at the growing cost of local government. Councils should have to budget and prioritise - just as families do.

"Huge rates increases every year are unsustainable. Kiwis are crying out for a chance to discuss alternatives for funding local government.

"Parliament gives councils the power to raise rates, and it's appropriate that they should review the way that power is being used.

"Our priority is getting Rodney Hide's Bill to Select Committee, where the public and local government can have their say, and consider alternative ways of funding local developments", Mr Mallett said.

Visit www.limitrates.org.nz.

ENDS

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