ARC demands the Government leaves Auckland’s boundaries alone

11 September 2009

The Government is putting Auckland – New Zealand’s economic power house – at risk by needlessly fiddling with the region’s boundaries, ARC Chairman Mike Lee said today.

“The Government must stop this madness before it is too late. The proposed boundaries are unworkable and will damage local government. What is happening is just divisive and a needless diversion.

“Today the ARC voted unanimously to demand the Government leave Auckland’s boundaries alone, and get on with the real job at hand – ensuring Auckland government can drive economic performance and the region’s development.

“The Government is also separating Auckland from key infrastructure, regional parks and water supplies paid for by Auckland ratepayers. This makes no sense and demonstrates a lack of understanding of Auckland and the issues the region faces.”

Mr Lee said radical boundary changes are not what most people want.

“The Government has never consulted on this. Instead of bringing Greater Auckland together by building a strong sense of community, the Government it is breaking up long standing, cohesive communities.

“We want to see the analysis behind the Government’s boundary decision. We challenge the Government to tell us and everyone else why it thinks this is a good idea and how it will help create better local government.

“It is not too late for the Government to stop this shambles. It must act to keep Greater Auckland intact if it wants to rely on Auckland’s economic base and ensure the Super City is a success.”

ENDS

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