23 days ago

Hamilton City Council - more overspending

Irene from Forest Lake

The current council and its elected councillors are deteriorating in their performance. The recent planned $700k debacle to relocate a bus stop in Anglesea St, which fortunately will not be proceeding, the costly Glenview bus stop issue to rectify, and now the proposed rate increase highlight mismanagement. Using the rates' calculator, our personal rates will surge by $517 next year, followed by $484 the subsequent year, and an additional $558 the third year, totalling a staggering $1,559 increase over three years. This burden falls heavily, especially on pensioners, and there's no guarantee that future councils won't impose further hikes.

Therefore, it's appalling to learn that our Mayor plans to attend ANZAC commemorations in Ypres, Belgium, this year. Couldn't a Zoom meeting suffice? This isn't a fact-finding mission to improve fiscal responsibility or address ratepayer concerns. It's an unnecessary expense. Will she travel economy class, or indulge in premium economy or business class comforts? Is she alone, or is there an entourage? It's us, the ratepayers, funding this European trip, while we're being told to reduce our carbon footprint by walking or biking, and roads are becoming increasingly difficult to navigate. If this trip is so imperative, shouldn't she cover the expenses herself?

I deeply regret supporting this council in the last elections. As the next elections approach (believed to be next year). Let's hope for fresh faces around the table and some common-sense.

Submissions for the local plan close on April 21st, and completion is critical. We need to ensure our voices are heard loud and clear. It has never been more crucial!

haveyoursay.hamilton.govt.nz...

More messages from your neighbours
42 minutes ago

Where do you think sells the best sausages?

The Team Reporter from Hamilton Press

Through all the tumult of existence, one thing remains unchanged - the makings of a good sausage.

Frankton Butchery owner Jim Ashton reckons people are looking for something reliable and they find it at his Commerce St store, whether its 15kg-worth or a single snarler.

Image
1 hour ago

What do you think of this new housing option?

Libby Totton Reporter from Waikato Times

A program to move people out of rentals and give them a sense of security with housing has been launched in Te Awamutu.

Twenty new two bedroom townhouses on Ohaupo Rd are available to buy at $291,750 - less than half the market price.

The catch is - you don’t own the land but hold a 100-year lease.

Image
3 days ago

Poll: Would you want an unconventional funeral?

The Team from Neighbourly.co.nz

Funerals can cost as much as $22,000 and the planning can be stressful especially at a time when loved ones are grieving. Some New Zealanders are re-imagining funerals by making their own coffin or having a relaxed ceremony at home. Would you want a less traditional funeral? Share your thoughts below.

Type 'Not For Print' if you wish your comments to be excluded from the Conversations column of your local paper.

Image
Would you want an unconventional funeral?
  • 84% Yes
    84% Complete
  • 14% No
    14% Complete
  • 2% Other - I'll share below!
    2% Complete
1722 votes