Media Statement - For immediate release

Monday 3 September 2007

Council should be more open and accountable on rates spend

The recent furore around the Council funding for a visit by David Beckham is yet another reminder of the need for greater transparency of information related to Council spending proposals according to Northern Ward Candidate, Roger Ellis.

“The freeflow of information is a vital part of democractic decision making. Effective local democracy demands open government at the Council. It’s impossible for ratepayers to judge the value of Council spending if they’re not provided with the information” said Mr Ellis.

“It’s time for a change. We need to improve the scrutiny of Council spending and make sure that there is real accountability to ratepayers. Having worked in the private sector for over 12 years I know the importance of good information for sound decision-making” said Mr Ellis.

In addition to more open decision-making Mr Ellis was also supportive of some reforms recommended in the recent Shand Report on local government financing.

“The government cannot keep loading a heavier burden on the backs of ratepayers. Central government, which is currently exempt from paying rates on most of its property, needs to pay its fair share” said Mr Ellis.

However, Mr Ellis also said that “Councils needed to exercise restraint over spending, cut red tape and reduce waste. There would be little point opening up a new revenue stream if the extra money was just frittered away on questionable projects. The Council needs to do the basics well” said Mr Ellis.

ENDS

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