Literary, numeracy tests needed for councillors
THROUGHOUT the country, there seems to be huge rate rises forecast and although most councils have called for submissions to their plans it is likely that they will be ignored and the rises will proceed. Sadly, although central government is attempting savings and the general public are suffering through the costofliving issues, councils are making no attempt to control or cut expenses or take any austerity measures such as reducing staff.
These rate increases are also feeding inflation, which is keeping interest rates high, causing more suffering for homeowners and businesses.
What is worse is the arrogance shown by mayors, councillors and council management when it comes to the rate increases, blaming everyone else when it is clear that they lack the necessary finance skills to budget and live within their means.
Perhaps for future elections, anyone standing for a council should need to pass literacy and numeracy tests? David Williamson
Invercargill
Hunting with the hounds
Well, well well. Dunedin City Council has seemingly got its way and totally screwed George St ( ODT 4.5.24).
As it is now finished I see nothing ‘‘Georgeous’’ about it. It is trying to be a version of Wellington’s Cuba Mall. I am glad the council thinks businesses like no vehicles in George St. It is a nightmare for getting deliveries and any work done in any of the businesses. Given you voted against this Mayor Radich, and given I voted for you to be mayor to change this because you were against it, is it time for you to resign? I am very sorry I voted for you. You are running with the hares and hunting with the hounds.
Lyn Meinders Normanby
A better use for money
Regarding the installation of a playground in George St, I consider this to be a total waste of ratepayers’ money. There are a number of playgrounds for children to amuse themselves already in Dunedin. Why install one in the centre of a retail area?
Suitable in dry weather but useless in the cold, windy days to come. Likewise the seating that has sprung up in
George St. No shelter from the elements so again useless, but of course these ideas have been promoted by ‘‘experts’’.
Decisionmakers who dream up these ridiculous ideas seem to completely forget that Dunedin is a heritage city well known by tourists for its beautiful buildings, many built in the 1880s and well maintained to the delight of those who appreciate them. Capitalise on the heritage aspect of our lovely city and stop trying to tart up retail areas with pedestrianonly concepts. Not all of us can walk distances now in our declining years.
Dunedin is a Scottish city, Christchurch is a garden city and Wellington is a windy city. Dunedin is a lovely oldstyle city of great charm so let’s keep it as it is.
If the current council can outlay money on George St, extra money could have gone to the cable car promoters. The view over the city from the Exchange to Mornington is fabulous. Look at how well San Francisco and the Wellington cable cars continue to delight tourists and locals who patronise them. Why can’t Dunedin? Margaret van Zyl
Dunedin