LGNZ set to use ratepayer money to lobby for "cat tax" ratepayers don't want

26 JULY 2017 - In the closest vote in the history of Local Government New Zealand, councils have voted 51% to 49% in favour of a policy remit which could see councils given the power to tax and regulate cat owners.

Commenting on the passing of the cat tax, Jordan Williams, Executive Director of the Taxpayers' Union said, "Despite the vast majority of ratepayers not supporting the cat tax, LGNZ will be spending their money on political lobbying and electioneering. We say that is wrong."

"The priorities of local politicians are completely out of whack. While Havelock North's water killed three people, the nation faces infrastructure and housing crisis, and higher rates are providing fewer and fewer core services, LGNZ is talking about taxes on cats. No wonder LGNZ's own research says public perception is that the sector can't be trusted."

ENDS

© Scoop Media