Draft Annual Plan Surveys A Guide Only
NEWS RELEASE from Hutt City Council
5 June 2002
DAP SURVEYS A GUIDE ONLY
Councillors use statistics collected in the course of the Draft Annual Plan consultation process as a guide when making
far-reaching decisions about the future of Hutt City, said Mayor John Terris.
"I do not think anyone would reasonably suggest that the results of any particular survey should dictate Council's
decisions," said Mayor Terris.
Mayor Terris was commenting on analyses of draft Annual Plan submissions, which apparently contradict each other.
"Councillors are elected by the citizens of Hutt City to make decisions on their behalf, using views formed from a
variety of sources," said Mayor Terris.
As part of the Draft Annual Plan consultation, Council calls for written submissions from members of the public. Those
submissions are then analysed and the results provided to councillors. An independent research company is also used to
survey a sample of Hutt City residents and those results are provided to councillors. Further analysis using a 'weighted
average' methodology has also been supplied to councillors.
"The three surveys apparently have some contradictory features." [examples attached]
"All this means is that Councillors will make decisions on the Annual Plan using a range of criteria including the
feedback that they receive on a daily basis from their constituents, what they believe in their hearts is the best
course for the city, survey data and personal views."
"Survey data on its own will be of limited help in this process.
"I am also aware that, while many submissions called for Council to adopt a 'business as usual' approach to its spending
there are a significant number of people out there who want to see us investing in this city and improving our assets
for future generations."
"In other words, residents want us to keep rates increases as low as possible, but also want to see this city grow and
prosper. I am in total agreement with that view," said Mayor Terris.
ENDS