Local Government down the Toilet?

Reports that local Councils will have to ask permission to renew contracts for everyday items such as toilet rolls, just about says it all on the Government’s approach to Auckland, says Tony Mayow spokesperson for the Community Coalition for Auckland- Voices of Tamaki Makaurau.

The coalition of community groups has been following with disbelief the establishment of the new Auckland Transition Agency, according to spokesperson Tony Mayow.

“This is not democracy; this is some sort of paranoid boot camp for Auckland’s councils and by extension – all Aucklanders” said Mr Mayow. 

“We are entering Wonderland, under urgency – The new legislation that forms the Auckland Transition Authority has the power to stop Auckland in its tracks if its draconian powers are used as written.

Already there is evidence of paralysis as Councils find out just how hamstrung they are by the governments centralisation of all power to make decisions about local matters. Incalculable damage will be done in a very short time to local communities, social infrastructure and local economies – The implications for small business owners in particular are disastrous.

Amongst other drastic powers of oversight, the new five member Transition Agency will require councils to seek their approval for all contracts over $20,000. The fact that the original amount of $5000 was only amended after desperate lobbying from Councils to introduce some common sense, just shows once more the shallow, poorly researched approach to local government that has characterised the central governments decisions on the super city issue

The Transition Authority legislation reflects a deeply cynical and mistrustful approach to Auckland voters and their elected representatives. No opportunity has been given to Councils, let alone the voters they serve, to review and respond to the legislation.”  

The Community Coalition for Auckland will be mounting a campaign for maximum community involvement in the Select Committee process for the new super city, and will hold workshops on how to make submissions.

The Coalition is also helping to build towards the Hikoi on May 25, in support of Maori demands for guaranteed representation on the Super City Council.

ENDS

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