Integrity And Competence Of ACRN Council Called Into Question

The proposed rates increase facing Auckland City residential ratepayers calls into question the basic integrity and competence of the Auckland Citizens and Ratepayers Coalition to lead and govern this city. Their shameless breaking of their election pledges demonstrate a contempt for the democratic process that most Aucklanders will find completely unacceptable.

“In spite of David Hay’s cowardly attempt to deny his own responsibility, he and his ACRN members of Auckland City Council have cynically failed to keep rates at the same level as 2001 for only a year, let alone the three years they promised,” said Marney Ainsworth, spokesperson for Wake Up Auckland! coalition, “meanwhile, they’re still cutting back on community, social and environmental services and amenities.”

“These people have shown their true colours – reducing rates for business owners and the wealthy, at the same timed seeking to make up the shortfall from the rest of Auckland, many of whom can least afford it. Their word is shown to be worthless.”

Wake Up Auckland! points to the proposed changes to tree removal policies as another example of serving only the better off in Auckland.

“They’re removing all restrictions from tree removals, leaving an open slather for property developers to do as they wish, all except for the wealthy suburbs of Remuera, Epsom and some parts of the Eastern Bays!”

Wake Up Auckland! is organising a march on 16 March at 11 am, starting at QE2 square and walking up Queen St to Myers Park to protest against the city council’s ‘New Direction’.

Wake Up Auckland has three official spokespeople:

Marney Ainsworth

Ph: 376 6213

Mob 021 284 7122

Email: marney@xtra.co.nz

Maire Leadbeater

Mob: 025-436 957

AH 815 9000

Email: maire@clear.net.nz

Marilyn Sainty and in her absence overseas

Peter Black

Ph 303 3068

Email pjsblack@xtra.co.nz

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