An important message for ratepayers
I have read the news on Whangārei District Council’s long-term plan and proposed rates increase (the council is proposing a general rates increase of 17.2%).
I have read the council document titled Funding For our Future, which is part of the long-term plan.
The impression given on page 14 of the document is also that the proposal is to increase general rates by 17.2%.
However, on page 16 of the same document it says that the 17.2% increase is for residential properties with land values greater than $620,000. For properties with less land value, the rates increase will be less. That is quite sensible.
Later in the same document, the three main scenarios that can lead to the proposed rates increase are explained. The council has also acknowledged that times are tough for ratepayers.
Therefore, if the proposed scenarios are postponed to later years when ratepayers are back on track financially, only a minimal rates increase is required to cover general cost increases in council services. I think this is an important message that must go to the ratepayers.
How wonderful it will be to say the council has empathy towards its ratepayers. It is the win-win scenario for council and ratepayers.
Marian Fernando CREDIT WHERE IT’S DUE
Health Minister Shane Reti’s comments accompanying the start of construction on the Northland radiation centre might have graciously included that crown funding for the centre was granted by the Jacinda Ardern-led government in April 2022. He might also have added that the recently defeated Labour government had invested $759 million into the first stage of the overdue hospital redevelopment in Whangārei and committed about $200m for the second stage.
In October last year, it was reported that the redevelopment would not be delivered within the first three-year term of the current National coalition government.
Hopefully, Reti – the parliamentary member for Whangārei – might hurry things along faster.
Ross Forbes NOT SO POPULAR VIEW
I read the article by Gorden Campbell on February 15 (Who’s in charge of this Government?) It is interesting this article follows the most recent political poll, which showed the coalition of National,
NZ First and ACT increasing in popularity while Labour, Greens and Te Pāti Māori all lost support. Perhaps the majority of the public don’t support Campbell’s views.
Malcolm Irwin FLUORIDE
I would like to respond to Roger Tuck.
The science supporting water fluoridation is not unequivocal. While some studies show it to be beneficial if applied topically to the teeth, it can be of benefit for some people, most don’t need it. Other studies show it to be neurotoxic and ecotoxic. We can choose to use fluoride toothpaste, which warns us not to swallow it.
As to oxygen; normal air has a safe level for healthy people; doctors can provide extra on an individual basis if necessary. Toxins in food and drink are consumed by choice, not forced onto us all by government. Mass medication of the population is unethical as it removes consent.
Many countries have banned the use of fluoridation, especially in Europe.