West Auckland voices must be heard for Auckland Council’s Emergency Budget to reflect the needs of Waitākere residents.

Feedback on Council’s Emergency Budget is now open and Waitākere Ward Councillors Linda Cooper and Shane Henderson are urging residents to make their views heard.

Councillor Henderson says that “COVID-19 dealt an economic blow to our city that now means we need to make some tough decisions about Auckland Council’s budget. There will be changes to the rates we pay and what we spend our money on.”

Impact

The impact of COVID-19 on Auckland Council’s budget is expected to result in a loss of about $525 million to council balance sheets.

“We know that many of our local whanau, small businesses and communities are hurting. We need West Aucklanders to help us to make decisions that are best for them,” says Councillor Cooper.

Feedback

Auckland Council is asking residents for their feedback on an Emergency Budget that will shape how well and how quickly our communities recover from COVID-19.

“We believe strongly that West Aucklanders must play a part in deciding the course of our city’s recovery,” says Councillor Henderson.

“When residents give their feedback on the budget they will be asked whether they support a rate increase of 2.5 per cent or 3.5 per cent.

“For an average value Auckland home, a 3.5 per cent rate increase will add just $1.83 per week to the rates bill, less than the cost of a litre of milk.”

Rates

“The rates that Waitākere residents pay fund the libraries, parks, leisure centres and community facilities that our people need and enjoy. We are committed to providing the essential services Aucklanders rely on, but there are some difficult decisions to be made,’ says Councillor Cooper.

“It absolutely vital that we get as much feedback from across the region as possible. The council is also proposing a rates postponement policy to offer some respite for people and businesses financially squeezed by COVID-19.

“As a city, we are in a different situation than we were a few months ago. Your voice truly matters, so please do have your say on the budget so that we can make the best decisions that we can for West Auckland.”

Consultation is open now until 19 June. Visit akhaveyoursay.nz/emergency-budget to have your say.