Proposed Auckland Council Rates Increase
Auckland Council Mayor Phil Goff is proposing rates increase (2.5% - 3.5%). It is unbelievable for a mayor who can propose such a ridiculous idea amidst a pandemic which will most likely cause a global economic slowdown. New Zealand will not escape from the hit as part of the international economy. Auckland, the largest city of NZ, will be adversely impacted by the slowdown as well. Even the central government has provided financial assistance to those suffering from the hardship in the lockdown period, I wonder why the Auckland Council could proceed the rate rise in this unprecedented difficult time. Not even considering to help out local residents to go through this difficult time, our Council is trying to add financial burden to the local residents.
In the 4 weeks lockdown, all infrastructure construction activities have ceased. Mr Goff also said that Auckland Council was already shedding contracts and temporary staff. It is reasonably estimated that Auckland Council would spend much less in the current financial year. Based on this estimate, it has absolutely no reason to raise the rates. On the opposite, Auckland Council should decrease the rates in this financial year to help the property owners to weather through the anticipated economic slowdown.
I have emailed my request to the Councillors of Howick Ward, Sharon Stewart and Paul Young, but got no response (so disappointed without even receiving an acknowledgement as a matter of courtesy).
As the rate increase will affect all residents in Auckland, no matter you are property owners or tenants, I hope you could voice out your views on this issue by emailing to the elected representatives of your ward who have promised to act on our interest in the last election.
Poll: How do you feel about dogs being allowed indoors in cafes?
For most of us, seeing a friendly doggo while out and about instantly brings a smile to our faces. But how do you feel about cafes welcoming pups inside?
Cast a vote and share your thoughts below.
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26.9% I love it!
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31.3% Only in designated areas
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41.9% No, it should be outdoors only.
Poll: Should employees be able to work from home?
At the post-Cabinet press conference, the National Party asserted they want public sector staff to return to the office. This has opened a conversation about other sectors in New Zealand who have adopted working from home (WFH).
Where possible, do you think employees should be able to work from home? Vote below and share your thoughts in the comments.
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69.4% Yes
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28% No
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2.6% Other - I'll share below
Happy Friday everyone, here's a riddle to round out your week 🥳
You measure my life in hours, and I serve you by expiring.
I'm quick when I'm thin and slow when I'm fat.
The wind is my enemy.
What am I?
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