A large portion of our people are now feeling increased financial pain, led by the world recession, and government and councils slow action in addressing this. A few of us, angered by this, got together last August, and have preached restraint ever since.
Real estate sales and values and job losses have sadly increased the personal cost to our people.
But unless councils take even firmer action, in my opinion, the current rate rise ripple will become a bow wave within the next two years; with ratepayers having a decreased ability to pay, but a much bigger bill.
An address to council as a submission in April 2009 by ex councillor Harper was so accurate it is unbelievable and warned of this way back then, but was largely ignored.
So where to from here?
Tauranga City has employed a new CEO for $86,000 less than previously.
On April 16, months later, our mayor gave council's position and said how Taupo had 'bit the bullet” and laid off 44 staff. Not easy to do, but sadly presumably necessary.
Western Bay has deferred many projects, but in my opinion, this will not correct the problem of the growing debt/interest mountain and more actions are needed to avoid our rates going further through the roof. Given the lack of development, and the lack of fees, ultimately the ratepayers must pick up the shortfall through rates. This is scary stuff. Please pick up a form in town and give council your views. Capitalizing interest is not an answer – two weeks to do it, submit to council plan.
Norm Mayo, Katikati Ward Councillor.