Power and money – two things Auckland’s local boards are not likely to have much of.

Aucklanders who stand in the super city elections are asked to give up time with family, friends and full-time work commitments. The low salary offered to local board members may mean people think twice before putting their name in the hat, Labour’s spokesperson for Auckland Issues Phil Twyford said today.

The Remuneration Authority has released its determination on elected member remuneration in the new Auckland Council. They have determined that the new Auckland Council mayor will be paid $240,000, and councilors will receive a base rate of $80,000. The base rate for Local Board members will be between $20,100 (Great Barrier) the minimum base rate and $37,100 (Howick), the maximum base rate.

“Overall it looks like the Remuneration Authority has got the balance about right. But I am concerned the low rates for local board members may mean the city misses out on some good candidates, especially if we are hoping to attract people who are in business or full-time employment.

“Rodney Hide has on numerous occasions touted the real decision making powers local boards will have, yet it seems he has failed to reflect the importance of these powers in the salaries members are to receive.

“Although these remuneration rates seem modest, Rodney Hide's latest flight of fancy does not.

The super city is employing a chief economist. What next? A chief scientist? Or maybe a fat controller to look after Auckland’s train stations?

“Aucklanders just want a better Auckland, not delusions of grandeur from Rodney Hide,” said Phil Twyford .

ENDS

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