Communities and Residents (C&R) says Auckland Council’s decision to increase rates by 7.9 per cent places an unfair burden on ratepayers already facing cost of living pressures, and risks undermining economic growth.
“Despite being elected on a platform of controlling council costs, Wayne Brown has now broken that pledge to ratepayers, who are being forced to bear the burden of poor fiscal management,” says C&R President David Hay.
“With the cost of living already a top issue for households, piling on a record increase to rates is unacceptable.
“We support investment in core services, but also recognise that Aucklanders expect discipline and accountability from their elected officials.
“Brown’s claim that the increase is necessary to fund the CRL distracts from the real issue - years of borrowing to spend have brought Council to this point.
"Notably absent was any mention of the increase in commercial rates, which are set to rise by 9.87 per cent.
“It is time for Auckland Council to stop treating ratepayers like an endless ATM. Before demanding more from residents and businesses, it needs to prove it has exhausted every opportunity to reduce wasteful spending and improve efficiency.
“This increase also risks harming Auckland’s economic growth and competitiveness. At a time when we should be encouraging investment, business confidence, and job creation, Council is increasing the financial burden on the very people driving Auckland’s economy.
“This sends the wrong message to Aucklanders who are making difficult financial sacrifices every day. Council should be leading by example and finding savings within its own organisation first.”
