We have great news daily, that New Zealand is hopefully shaking off and bringing to a finality, this world disaster we have been caught up in.

What a scandal it is that our beloved Western Bay of Plenty District Council is adamant to increase our rates.

The majority of the population is feeling the pinch one way or another, whether it be job loss, less hours, or wage reduction.

Back in 2016 when the mayor went into office he declared he was the man to hold rates and put realistic thoughts into running the council.

It appears in his second term he is more determined than ever to upset the ratepayers.

Ratepayers in the Western Bay cannot suffer this rate fate and would be hit harder than ever if it went ahead.

We don't need the whims and wants of some people at present and at least rate increases can be delayed or cancelled until Western Bay populace can well-afford these nice-to-have unnecessaries by the few who want them.

This also applies to the proposed rubbish collection. Why fix what's not broken. At Katikati our recycling centre works well.

Finally, does council realise the revenue it wants off Government for other projects is taxpayer funded. Does council want two bites of the cherry or are you just double dipping.

C'mon council.

Ewen Luskie, Katikati