Rates hike con

We are being conned when a previous deputy mayor [Gordon chesterman] says in his recent [column in the Waikato Times, April 18]. I think the saddest thing for me, personally, is that very respected councillors, including Martin Gallagher, have bought in to the rate-rise fiction. I even admire Mayor King whose “other life” includes many worthwhile projects, but as mayor he is a total failure as is now Martin. Very sadly, they need to go at the next council election. Ditto the chair of the finance committee Garry Mallett. Who should be our next mayor? Paula Southgate does not emerge unscathed by the rates and theatre debacle either. Putting a glossy photo on the front of the Waikato Times of the Momentum theatre does not do justice to the Founders Theatre, which is the most viable option. People want safety and car parks and it provides both. Garden Place is absolutely fine as it is. Millions to make it “different”? No.

I am not sure who the mayor and councillors speak to, but folk even phone me to say the mayor and council have lost touch with local people and voters. So 20% increases in rates, revised valuations and Waikato Regional rates means for this council – sayonara. Let’s vote in experienced intelligent and savvy folk who will reduce rates, reduce the size of the council administration and the pay packet of CEO and staff remunerated by savings and measurable goals achieved! Being practical, do we need a regional council when it and local councils could be amalgamated? Complete the council 10-year Plan revue online or at the library. Tell them what you really think!

Ian Hanley

Hamilton