Council arms staff for BBQ chatter

Auckland Council is arming staff with handy tips to deal with curly questions at summer barbecues.

A series called ‘‘BBQ Conversations’’, sent internally to council employees, outlines ways staff can deal with questions.

‘‘This summer we’re arming you with some handy facts, so you can confidently chat to your mates and clear up a few misconceptions about Auckland Council,’’ a post says.

Auckland Council’s director of communication and engagement Karl Ferguson says more than 3000 staff have viewed the series.

‘‘Our staff often get questions from friends and family about council-related topics, and summer BBQs are no exception. Many staff have told us, in these situations that, it would be useful to know a few key facts, especially where it’s highly topical.’’

The series includes scenarios a at a barbecue, highlighting key points that can be raised to clarify misconceptions around topics such as rates, council debt and transport.

One fictitious scenario outlines a council employee being asked, ‘‘So, I hear Auckland Council’s even further in debt this year. What are yous guys funding over there other than your big salaries?’’

It points out that debt rose to within agreed levels and that asset value has increased by $2.5 billion over the past 12 months.

Auckland Council staff have been sent summer barbecue talking points on debt, rates and transport.