Councillor questions poll results
Auckland Councillor John Watson disagrees with Mayor Phil Goff’s view that the recent Council-commissioned Colmar Brunton poll shows public endorsement for its 10-year budget proposals.
The Mayor’s views are stated in Viewpoint.
Cr Watson says the poll, which cost ratepayers $110,000, was flawed in that it mentioned only the average five percent increase in general rates, but not a raft of other charges including the proposed Watercare rates increase of seven percent for two years (9.5 percent for six years after that). The proposed sale of $210m of public assets was also not included.
Cr Watson says breaking down the poll figures also reveals that most residents of the Hibiscus & Bays Local Board area did not support the budget, although it was close – 47 percent opposed, and 44 percent in support. Region-wide it was 37 percent opposed and 46 percent in support.