Council spend challenged

We see big borrowing by the New Plymouth District Council (NPDC) to cover the increased running costs of the new airport terminal, the carousel plant and infrastructure that is going to need megabucks poured into it in the near future. Some councillors have got their feet on the ground and resist or show their anti feelings towards this borrowing and pushing the cost onto future generations.

Our mayor, Gordon Brown and Murray Chong have all stated that they are worried that the council is living beyond its means, and it is. We’re all critical of individuals who let their credit card debt get out of control but many of our councillors, some of them senior, are encouraging the NPDC to do exactly that. The answer is summed up as a poorly run council [fiscally] with over-employment and a lack of productivity.

How about taking a close look at these before going further into debt. Many of us who live in the rural areas under the NPDC jurisdiction didn’t ever want to be part of a greater council and still don’t. Big is not always beautiful. Ask former Prime Minister Muldoon when you get down there.

John Hill, Urenui is in a strong financial position. Council’s PIF (perpetual investment fund) at around $285m is worth more than its debt ($260m). Furthermore, the NPDC recently amended its treasury policy so the PIF can be used as collateral. This means the Council can borrow an additional $216m. In the short term, let’s support the airport. It’s a great place to have meal and a coffee, and an ideal venue for conferences, seminars and business meetings.

Bryan Vickery, Strandon