Media advisory
14 July 2014

Response to the Weekend Herald editorial

Dear Sir

When John Roughan describes the unified Auckland Council as an 'under-working morass of inefficiency', what exactly is he referring to? Could it be the $1.7bn in cost and efficiency savings under the new Council, is it the vastly improved consenting times or a better relationship with central government? Perhaps it's our AA credit rating, historic investment in public transport, or the most stable and low rates rises in decades?

We know we can do better, but we're also proud of what our staff and Councillors have achieved in three and a half short years - to improve services, keep costs low for Aucklanders and invest for the future.

Over the next 12 months the Council will take the next big step - a 10 year budget aligned to Auckland's priorities. There will be tough choices ahead for our city's leaders. But as the Mayor has said, it's also a historic opportunity to transform our city for the better. That's something that's worthy of a thoughtful and informed discussion with Aucklanders - and something we hope the Herald will want to be part of.

Yours sincerely,

Stephen Town
Chief Executive
Auckland Council

Ends

© Scoop Media