I'm not really sure what to say after being totally overwhelmed by the results this weekend. I think the reality of what has been achieved is now starting to sink in.
So I would like to say a massive THANK YOU to everyone for helping with the campaign, voting & supporting the candidates that can really make Auckland into the super City we truly deserve.
Len Brown IS the man for the job & I want to pass on my heartfelt congratulations and full support to him. The most important thing we can do now is work together to make sure he can achieve the results Auckland so desperately needs to move forward.
It has been a long and arduous road to get to this point from the day Rodney Hide threw away the Royal Commission's report. I certainly feel like I've fought every step of every day since then. Now I want to turn my efforts into something more positive to make this City work for all of us.
Democracy has been returned to Auckland by the people, for the people, with bells on. We have the right man for Mayor & a left wing Council. The Local Boards are a mixed bag, some are full of fantastic people, others will be more challenging, but together we can and will make a difference if we continue to participate and support them. The most important thing will be to ensure that local people do feel included and listened to & that their unique community identities are retained - this is the promise of the left that we must deliver on & we can all help to achieve that.
The successful candidates have a huge job on their hands & their remuneration is a pittance compared to the undoubted workload they will face, so I wish them all luck and strength in their quest - congratulations to all of them. I will continue with my work to feed them the information they need to make quality, informed decisions on the issues that matter to me and my community, which just got a whole lot bigger.
There's just one person I want to single out for special praise & that's Greg Presland, the Chair of Future West and now new Local Board member for the Waitakere Ranges. Congratulations Greg and thanks for running such a professional & smooth campaign for Future West. It has been an absolute pleasure & very easy to work alongside you, I certainly don't feel anyone could've done more than you to deliver the right results for the west & we should all be incredibly grateful to you. I have learned heaps, thoroughly enjoyed myself & am looking forward to doing it all again in 3 yrs time :)
Auckland has taken back the power of its own destiny from those who would strip it from us. The Government has been sent a very strong message they would do well to listen to. Roll on the General Election - and here's to Auckland - our super City.
cheers
Mels Barton
President, GAG
Secretary, Future West
PS there have been some excellent articles analysing the results I've listed below FYI as well as links to the full results in case you haven't seen them.
The full results on the www.elections2010.co.nz website:
http://www.elections2010.co.nz/2010/elections/auckland-council#auckland-council-whau-ward
Left Leaning Council for Len Brown by Bernard Orsman & Michael Dickison:
http://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/news/article.cfm?c_id=1&objectid=10679299
Left wing flying high over the Supercity by Matt McCarten:
http://www.nzherald.co.nz/opinion/news/article.cfm?c_id=466&objectid=10679363
Super Len to lead Supercity by Kieran Nash:
http://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/news/article.cfm?c_id=1&objectid=10679464
Power shifts to Auckland by Jonathan Milne:
http://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/news/article.cfm?c_id=1&objectid=10679481
Left, right & centre - it's a council for all by Bernard Orsman:
http://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/news/article.cfm?c_id=1&objectid=10679675
Names at top of alphabet sweep DHB seats by Martin Johnston:
http://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/news/article.cfm?c_id=1&objectid=10679646
Brown's lefty hordes show the big boys who's in charge by Brian Rudman:
http://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/news/article.cfm?c_id=1&objectid=10679672
Brown's town just got a lot bigger by Frances Morton:
http://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/news/article.cfm?c_id=1&objectid=10679400
Articles "Thanks for your support" by Greg Presland and "This is only the beginning" by our youngest candidate Lincoln Dam on the Future West website:
http://futurewest.org.nz/
Sunday, October 10, 2010
Monday, September 6, 2010
FUTURE WEST & FUTURE WHAU FUNDRAISING EVENTS
GAG is part of the Future West coalition, working hard to get great people elected to the new Local Boards for the Waitakere and Whau wards.
Please support our fundraising events below or contact Mels Barton on mels@wombatsenvironmental.co.nz to make a donation.
Details of Future West's principles and profiles of all our candidates are on www.futurewest.org.nz
DINNER AT HANDI RESTAURANT
Thursday 16th September, 6.30pm
421 Titirangi Road, Titirangi Village.
Down driveway behind the Shell Petrol station, opposite The Hardware Cafe.
Enjoy the wonderful atmosphere and tasty food with bush and city views.
$25 per person includes four curries (Buffet) rice and naan. Wine $4, Juice $2
BAGEL BRUNCH AT EARTHSONG ECO-NEIGHBOURHOOD
Sunday 19th September, 10am
Meet the candidates and enjoy bagels, freshly-squeezed juices and espresso coffee in the beautiful, relaxed surroundings of New Zealands first and only co-housing neighbourhood.
$20 per person
Earthsong, Swanson Rd, Ranui.
Please support our fundraising events below or contact Mels Barton on mels@wombatsenvironmental.co.nz to make a donation.
Details of Future West's principles and profiles of all our candidates are on www.futurewest.org.nz
DINNER AT HANDI RESTAURANT
Thursday 16th September, 6.30pm
421 Titirangi Road, Titirangi Village.
Down driveway behind the Shell Petrol station, opposite The Hardware Cafe.
Enjoy the wonderful atmosphere and tasty food with bush and city views.
$25 per person includes four curries (Buffet) rice and naan. Wine $4, Juice $2
BAGEL BRUNCH AT EARTHSONG ECO-NEIGHBOURHOOD
Sunday 19th September, 10am
Meet the candidates and enjoy bagels, freshly-squeezed juices and espresso coffee in the beautiful, relaxed surroundings of New Zealands first and only co-housing neighbourhood.
$20 per person
Earthsong, Swanson Rd, Ranui.
FUTURE WEST CANDIDATES ANNOUNCED
PRESS RELEASE – For immediate release, 24 August 2010
The Future West team has selected the candidates they wish to stand in the Waitakere Ward for the Auckland Council elections in October under the banner “Future West”.
The values Future West candidates are campaigning on include:
- keeping public assets in public ownership, no privatisation;
- restoring local democracy;
- retaining local identity for communities and ensuring they have a strong voice.
“The candidates that we have picked to stand for the Future West team have a great mixture of skills, experience, background, age, enthusiasm and ethnicity that we think reflects the diversity of the ward” says Future West Chair Greg Presland.
“The candidates we have selected represent the grassroots community and will be working together to restore democracy to the Super City for the future of everyone in the Waitakere Ranges, Henderson and Massey” says GAG President Mels Barton.
The candidates standing for the Waitakere Ranges Local Board in the Waitakere Ward for Future West are:
Greg Presland
Denise Yates
Neil Henderson
Steve Tollestrup
The candidates standing for the Henderson-Massey Local Board in the Waitakere Ward for Future West are:
Jeremy Greenbrook-Held
Melody Shinnick
Gary Stewart
Lyndon Walker
Lincoln Dam
Richard Prakash
The candidates standing for the Portage Licensing Trust for Future West are:
Ami Chand
Neil Henderson
Brett Austin
The candidate standing for the Waitakere Licensing Trust for Future West is:
Jeremy Greenbrook-Held
More details regarding all candidates are available on the Future West and City Vision websites at www.futurewest.org.nz
Future West is a coalition of the Labour Party, Green Party and independent community groups.
ENDS
The Future West team has selected the candidates they wish to stand in the Waitakere Ward for the Auckland Council elections in October under the banner “Future West”.
The values Future West candidates are campaigning on include:
- keeping public assets in public ownership, no privatisation;
- restoring local democracy;
- retaining local identity for communities and ensuring they have a strong voice.
“The candidates that we have picked to stand for the Future West team have a great mixture of skills, experience, background, age, enthusiasm and ethnicity that we think reflects the diversity of the ward” says Future West Chair Greg Presland.
“The candidates we have selected represent the grassroots community and will be working together to restore democracy to the Super City for the future of everyone in the Waitakere Ranges, Henderson and Massey” says GAG President Mels Barton.
The candidates standing for the Waitakere Ranges Local Board in the Waitakere Ward for Future West are:
Greg Presland
Denise Yates
Neil Henderson
Steve Tollestrup
The candidates standing for the Henderson-Massey Local Board in the Waitakere Ward for Future West are:
Jeremy Greenbrook-Held
Melody Shinnick
Gary Stewart
Lyndon Walker
Lincoln Dam
Richard Prakash
The candidates standing for the Portage Licensing Trust for Future West are:
Ami Chand
Neil Henderson
Brett Austin
The candidate standing for the Waitakere Licensing Trust for Future West is:
Jeremy Greenbrook-Held
More details regarding all candidates are available on the Future West and City Vision websites at www.futurewest.org.nz
Future West is a coalition of the Labour Party, Green Party and independent community groups.
ENDS
Monday, July 19, 2010
DR MELS BARTON ON THE VINNIE EASTWOOD SHOW
Mels Barton will be interviewed live on the Vinnie Eastwood show, broadcasting in the United States on Weds 21 July at 7am (NZ local time).
You can listen to the show online here www.thevinnyeastwoodshow.com
The Vinnie Eastwood Show is part of American Freedom Radio www.americanfreedomradio.com
You can listen to the show online here www.thevinnyeastwoodshow.com
The Vinnie Eastwood Show is part of American Freedom Radio www.americanfreedomradio.com
Monday, July 12, 2010
FUTURE WHAU AND PORTAGE CANDIDATES ANNOUNCED
PRESS RELEASE – For immediate release, Tuesday 13 July 2010
The Future West and City Vision teams have selected the candidates they wish to stand in the Whau Ward for the Auckland Council elections in October under the banner “Future Whau”.
“The candidates that we have picked to stand for the Future Whau team have a great range of skills, experience, background, age and ethnicity that we think reflects the diversity of the ward” says Future West Chair Greg Presland.
“Future West and City Vision are working together to pool resources and get the best outcome for the people of the Whau Ward” says City Vision Chair Robert Gallagher.
“The candidates we have selected represent the grassroots community and will be working together to restore democracy to the Super City for the future of everyone in the Whau” says GAG President Mels Barton.
The candidates standing for the Local Board in the Whau Ward for Future Whau are:
Nick Bakulich
Catherine Farmer
Cherie Jamieson
Gary Marshall
Ann Pala
Eve Robertson
Imi Tovia
The candidates standing for the Portage Licensing Trust for Future West are:
Catherine Farmer
Margi Watson
Lorraine Wilson
More details regarding all candidates will be available on the Future West and City Vision websites at www.futurewest.org.nz or cityvision.org.nz once all selections are complete.
Future West and City Vision are coalitions of the Labour Party, Green Party and independent community groups.
The Future West and City Vision teams have selected the candidates they wish to stand in the Whau Ward for the Auckland Council elections in October under the banner “Future Whau”.
“The candidates that we have picked to stand for the Future Whau team have a great range of skills, experience, background, age and ethnicity that we think reflects the diversity of the ward” says Future West Chair Greg Presland.
“Future West and City Vision are working together to pool resources and get the best outcome for the people of the Whau Ward” says City Vision Chair Robert Gallagher.
“The candidates we have selected represent the grassroots community and will be working together to restore democracy to the Super City for the future of everyone in the Whau” says GAG President Mels Barton.
The candidates standing for the Local Board in the Whau Ward for Future Whau are:
Nick Bakulich
Catherine Farmer
Cherie Jamieson
Gary Marshall
Ann Pala
Eve Robertson
Imi Tovia
The candidates standing for the Portage Licensing Trust for Future West are:
Catherine Farmer
Margi Watson
Lorraine Wilson
More details regarding all candidates will be available on the Future West and City Vision websites at www.futurewest.org.nz or cityvision.org.nz once all selections are complete.
Future West and City Vision are coalitions of the Labour Party, Green Party and independent community groups.
Thursday, July 1, 2010
Dr Mels Barton. Ecology of a Supercity, Governance and Democracy
GreenplanetFM 104.6 Thursday 1st July 8-9am
Dr Mels Barton. Ecology of a Supercity, Governance and Democracy
Listen online at any time by clicking here.
Listen to a clear and lucid understanding of what the many grass roots and
volunteer groups are doing to make NZ sustainable and the excellent work
they do, what charitable trusts support them, how local government needs
more consciousness to see that an ecological approach to environment,
health and community are critical to where we are going as a nation.
That at a national level, the Government still sees the environment as
'something' to exploit, when for example, in England Marks and Spence the
huge super store has gone sustainable and is producing larger profits,
because of going more into organics and a healthier lifestyle.
On top of this the NZ Resource Management Act is perceived as woolly, in
that there are no numbers in it, no targets, or standards, and that we are
20 years behind Europe in writing and complying with policy. When in fact
we could be the planetary leader!
Finally, an exceptionally clear summary about the Supercity, Governance
and Loss of Democracy. Plus, what is the Search and Surveillance Bill that
is being foisted upon us, a peaceful nation of only 4 million kiwis? Why
such draconian measures and who it there right mind would conjure up such
a hideous concept?
GreenplanetFM 104.6 Thur 1 July 8-9am
Dr Mels Barton
http://www.gag.net.nz
http://www.ourauckland.org.nz
http://pavingparadise.net
http://www.waitakereranges.org.nz
With Tim Lynch in Mobilising Consciousness
Dr Mels Barton. Ecology of a Supercity, Governance and Democracy
Listen online at any time by clicking here.
Listen to a clear and lucid understanding of what the many grass roots and
volunteer groups are doing to make NZ sustainable and the excellent work
they do, what charitable trusts support them, how local government needs
more consciousness to see that an ecological approach to environment,
health and community are critical to where we are going as a nation.
That at a national level, the Government still sees the environment as
'something' to exploit, when for example, in England Marks and Spence the
huge super store has gone sustainable and is producing larger profits,
because of going more into organics and a healthier lifestyle.
On top of this the NZ Resource Management Act is perceived as woolly, in
that there are no numbers in it, no targets, or standards, and that we are
20 years behind Europe in writing and complying with policy. When in fact
we could be the planetary leader!
Finally, an exceptionally clear summary about the Supercity, Governance
and Loss of Democracy. Plus, what is the Search and Surveillance Bill that
is being foisted upon us, a peaceful nation of only 4 million kiwis? Why
such draconian measures and who it there right mind would conjure up such
a hideous concept?
GreenplanetFM 104.6 Thur 1 July 8-9am
Dr Mels Barton
http://www.gag.net.nz
http://www.ourauckland.org.nz
http://pavingparadise.net
http://www.waitakereranges.org.nz
With Tim Lynch in Mobilising Consciousness
Monday, June 28, 2010
STOP PRIVATISATION PUBLIC MEETING
No corporate control over our water!
Investigate United Water's 7 New Zealand contracts - were they based on misrepresented pricing?
Monday 5 July, 7.30pm at Freemans Bay Community Centre, 52 Hepburn St, Ponsonby.
Confirmed speakers:
Penny Bright - Water Pressuregroup Spokesperson
Tony Holman - North Shore City Councillor
Allan McCullough - Grey Power Auckland Regional Director
Phil Twyford MP - Labour Party Auckland Issues Spokesperson
Winston Peters - Leader, New Zealand First
Invited Speakers:
Rodney Hide - Minister for Local Government
Mark Ford - Executive Chair, Auckland Transition Agency
Green Party Speaker
National Party Speaker
Maori Party Speaker
More details at www.stopprivatisation.org.nz
Investigate United Water's 7 New Zealand contracts - were they based on misrepresented pricing?
Monday 5 July, 7.30pm at Freemans Bay Community Centre, 52 Hepburn St, Ponsonby.
Confirmed speakers:
Penny Bright - Water Pressuregroup Spokesperson
Tony Holman - North Shore City Councillor
Allan McCullough - Grey Power Auckland Regional Director
Phil Twyford MP - Labour Party Auckland Issues Spokesperson
Winston Peters - Leader, New Zealand First
Invited Speakers:
Rodney Hide - Minister for Local Government
Mark Ford - Executive Chair, Auckland Transition Agency
Green Party Speaker
National Party Speaker
Maori Party Speaker
More details at www.stopprivatisation.org.nz
Tuesday, June 8, 2010
MAKE A SUBMISSION ON PRIVATISATION
The Labour Party have written a guide on making a submission on the Local Government Amendment Bill, which you can download here:
http://blog.labour.org.nz/wp-content/uploads/2010/06/Guide-to-Making-a-Submission-on-the-Local-Government-Act-2002-Amendment-Bill.pdf
http://blog.labour.org.nz/wp-content/uploads/2010/06/Guide-to-Making-a-Submission-on-the-Local-Government-Act-2002-Amendment-Bill.pdf
COMMUNITY RALLIES AGAINST WATER PRIVATISATION
PRESS RELEASE
For immediate release: Tuesday 8 June 2010
COMMUNITY RALLIES AGAINST WATER PRIVATISATION
Community groups from all around the country will gather at their local town hall or council offices on Saturday 12 June from 12-2pm to protest against privatisation of water and other public assets.
Rallies are being organised for a National Day of Action Against Privatisation at town halls throughout New Zealand, as well as in Australia, and the organisers hope to get a good turnout from the public. In West Auckland the Grassroots Action Group (GAG) is working with others to put on the event at Waitakere City Council.
“No one should profit from water - it is a natural monopoly, a necessity of life, and a human right,” says GAG spokesperson Mels Barton. “The Government is making it easy for private companies in New Zealand to do exactly that and selling our water to foreign investors.”
On Tuesday 4 May 2010 the Local Government Amendment Bill passed its first reading in New Zealand Parliament. While the government is denying this, the Bill allows councils to privatise water. They will be able to:
* Enter into contracts with private companies to run water services for up to 35 years (the current limit is 15 years);
* Allow private companies to own and control water infrastructure for the duration of these contracts (the current legislation requires councils to retain ownership and control of water).
The long-term leases the Bill allows for are the dominant model of water privatisation in the world. It is very rare for councils or governments to sell off the water asset entirely. Long-term leases work in the private companies’ favour as they can make profit from water while the public sector retains long-term costs and responsibility.
Internationally the model that has been proposed is shown to lead to higher water costs, less accountability and reduced services. The global water industry is dominated by two mega companies Suez and Veolia. A subsidiary of Veolia is United Water who is already active in New Zealand.
Mels Barton says the event is very important for the public to attend. “We will be encouraging people to make submissions to the select committee on the Government’s proposals and give them the strong message that privatising New Zealand’s water is not an option.”
For immediate release: Tuesday 8 June 2010
COMMUNITY RALLIES AGAINST WATER PRIVATISATION
Community groups from all around the country will gather at their local town hall or council offices on Saturday 12 June from 12-2pm to protest against privatisation of water and other public assets.
Rallies are being organised for a National Day of Action Against Privatisation at town halls throughout New Zealand, as well as in Australia, and the organisers hope to get a good turnout from the public. In West Auckland the Grassroots Action Group (GAG) is working with others to put on the event at Waitakere City Council.
“No one should profit from water - it is a natural monopoly, a necessity of life, and a human right,” says GAG spokesperson Mels Barton. “The Government is making it easy for private companies in New Zealand to do exactly that and selling our water to foreign investors.”
On Tuesday 4 May 2010 the Local Government Amendment Bill passed its first reading in New Zealand Parliament. While the government is denying this, the Bill allows councils to privatise water. They will be able to:
* Enter into contracts with private companies to run water services for up to 35 years (the current limit is 15 years);
* Allow private companies to own and control water infrastructure for the duration of these contracts (the current legislation requires councils to retain ownership and control of water).
The long-term leases the Bill allows for are the dominant model of water privatisation in the world. It is very rare for councils or governments to sell off the water asset entirely. Long-term leases work in the private companies’ favour as they can make profit from water while the public sector retains long-term costs and responsibility.
Internationally the model that has been proposed is shown to lead to higher water costs, less accountability and reduced services. The global water industry is dominated by two mega companies Suez and Veolia. A subsidiary of Veolia is United Water who is already active in New Zealand.
Mels Barton says the event is very important for the public to attend. “We will be encouraging people to make submissions to the select committee on the Government’s proposals and give them the strong message that privatising New Zealand’s water is not an option.”
Sunday, June 6, 2010
National Day of Action Against Privatisation - Saturday, 12 June 2010
No one should profit from water - it is a natural monopoly, a necessity of life, and a human right.
On Tuesday 4 May 2010 the Local Government Amendment Bill passed its first reading in New Zealand Parliament. While the government is denying this, the Bill allows councils to privatise water. They will be able to:
* Enter into contracts with private companies to run water services for up to 35 years (the current limit is 15 years)
* Allow private companies to own and control water infrastructure for the duration of these contracts (the current legislation requires councils to retain ownership and control of water)
The long-term leases the Bill allows for are the dominant model of water privatisation in the world. It is very rare for councils or governments to sell off the water asset entirely. Long term leases work in private companies favour as they can make profit from water while the public sector retains long-term costs and responsibilty.
Internationally the model that has been proposed is shown to lead to higher water costs, less accountability and reduced services. The global water industry is dominated by two mega companies Suez and Veolia. A subsidary of Veolia is United Water and already active in New Zealand.
Get organised with your friends, whanau, church, school, club to oppose water privatisation. Join the National Day of Action in your area. Even if you can't attend, please click 'Invite people to come' and let others know about it.
Whangarei
12 noon - 2.00pm
Proposed Rally outside Whangerei District Council Chambers, Forum North Building, Rust Avenue, Whangarei
Assistance needed with placards / speakers
Contact: Claire Swinney, (09) 430 7252 or 021-0732885
North Shore City
12 noon - 2.00pm
Rally outside North Shore City Council Chambers
1 The Strand, Takapuna
Contact: Kerry Bevan: (09) 473 3747 or Percy Allison on (09) 443 0369
Waitakere City
12 noon - 2.00pm
Rally outside Waitakere City Council Chambers
6 Henderson Valley Road, Henderson, Waitakere
Contact: Mered Barrar: (09) 836 6389
Auckland
12.00-2.00pm,
Rally outside Auckland Town Hall.
Contact Penny Bright: waterpressure@gmail.com or (09) 846 9825 or 021 211 4127
Website: www.stopprivatisation.org.nz/
Manukau City
12 noon - 2.00pm
Rally outside Manakau City Council Chambers
31-33 Wiri Station Road (opposite Manukau District Court), Manukau City Centre
Contact: Bill Wiki by email or 021 058 6538
Franklin District Council
12 noon - 2pm
Outside Franklin District Council Chambers
82 Manukau Road, Pukekohe
Contact: Judy Spencer (09) 236 3899 or Margaret Swift Ph Judy (09) 236 3899
Or email Franklin against Water Privatisation: thestudio@paradise.net.nz
Hamilton
12.00-2.00pm (ring to confirm)
Rally outside Hamilton City Council Chambers
Contact: Mischelle Rhodes: tommopmog@gmail.com or (07) 847 7405
Kapiti Coast
Coastlands stall and rally,
Contact David Scott: davidscott@ihug.co.nz
Hutt City
12 noon - 2pm
Main Council Building, 30 Laings Road, Lower Hutt
Contact Anna Sutherland: anna@yorkbay.net.nz or 021 349 411
Kapiti Coast
Coastlands stall and rally,
Contact David Scott: davidscott@ihug.co.nz
Wellington
11.30am
Bucket Fountain on Cuba Street. moving at 12.30 to the Wellington City Council Buildings, 101 Wakefield St Wellington
Contact Sam Buchanan: quackysam@hotmail.com
Website: www.righttowater.org.nz
Christchurch, NB Sunday not Saturday
Sunday 13th June, 3pm
Cathedral Square, Cathedral will be open if its wet
Contact Eugenie Sage (03) 329 8177
Website: www.ourwaterourvote.org.nz
Dunedin
12.00-2.00pm
Dunedin Council Chambers, Civic Centre, 50 The Octogan
Contact Fliss Butcher: (03) 477 9972
or Lyndon Weggery: LWeggery@hotmail.com
On Tuesday 4 May 2010 the Local Government Amendment Bill passed its first reading in New Zealand Parliament. While the government is denying this, the Bill allows councils to privatise water. They will be able to:
* Enter into contracts with private companies to run water services for up to 35 years (the current limit is 15 years)
* Allow private companies to own and control water infrastructure for the duration of these contracts (the current legislation requires councils to retain ownership and control of water)
The long-term leases the Bill allows for are the dominant model of water privatisation in the world. It is very rare for councils or governments to sell off the water asset entirely. Long term leases work in private companies favour as they can make profit from water while the public sector retains long-term costs and responsibilty.
Internationally the model that has been proposed is shown to lead to higher water costs, less accountability and reduced services. The global water industry is dominated by two mega companies Suez and Veolia. A subsidary of Veolia is United Water and already active in New Zealand.
Get organised with your friends, whanau, church, school, club to oppose water privatisation. Join the National Day of Action in your area. Even if you can't attend, please click 'Invite people to come' and let others know about it.
Whangarei
12 noon - 2.00pm
Proposed Rally outside Whangerei District Council Chambers, Forum North Building, Rust Avenue, Whangarei
Assistance needed with placards / speakers
Contact: Claire Swinney, (09) 430 7252 or 021-0732885
North Shore City
12 noon - 2.00pm
Rally outside North Shore City Council Chambers
1 The Strand, Takapuna
Contact: Kerry Bevan: (09) 473 3747 or Percy Allison on (09) 443 0369
Waitakere City
12 noon - 2.00pm
Rally outside Waitakere City Council Chambers
6 Henderson Valley Road, Henderson, Waitakere
Contact: Mered Barrar: (09) 836 6389
Auckland
12.00-2.00pm,
Rally outside Auckland Town Hall.
Contact Penny Bright: waterpressure@gmail.com or (09) 846 9825 or 021 211 4127
Website: www.stopprivatisation.org.nz/
Manukau City
12 noon - 2.00pm
Rally outside Manakau City Council Chambers
31-33 Wiri Station Road (opposite Manukau District Court), Manukau City Centre
Contact: Bill Wiki by email or 021 058 6538
Franklin District Council
12 noon - 2pm
Outside Franklin District Council Chambers
82 Manukau Road, Pukekohe
Contact: Judy Spencer (09) 236 3899 or Margaret Swift Ph Judy (09) 236 3899
Or email Franklin against Water Privatisation: thestudio@paradise.net.nz
Hamilton
12.00-2.00pm (ring to confirm)
Rally outside Hamilton City Council Chambers
Contact: Mischelle Rhodes: tommopmog@gmail.com or (07) 847 7405
Kapiti Coast
Coastlands stall and rally,
Contact David Scott: davidscott@ihug.co.nz
Hutt City
12 noon - 2pm
Main Council Building, 30 Laings Road, Lower Hutt
Contact Anna Sutherland: anna@yorkbay.net.nz or 021 349 411
Kapiti Coast
Coastlands stall and rally,
Contact David Scott: davidscott@ihug.co.nz
Wellington
11.30am
Bucket Fountain on Cuba Street. moving at 12.30 to the Wellington City Council Buildings, 101 Wakefield St Wellington
Contact Sam Buchanan: quackysam@hotmail.com
Website: www.righttowater.org.nz
Christchurch, NB Sunday not Saturday
Sunday 13th June, 3pm
Cathedral Square, Cathedral will be open if its wet
Contact Eugenie Sage (03) 329 8177
Website: www.ourwaterourvote.org.nz
Dunedin
12.00-2.00pm
Dunedin Council Chambers, Civic Centre, 50 The Octogan
Contact Fliss Butcher: (03) 477 9972
or Lyndon Weggery: LWeggery@hotmail.com
Monday, May 31, 2010
LAST CHANCE TO PARTICIPATE IN SUPER CITY DEBATE
The Third Super-City Bill has now been tabled in the House of Representatives and will be debated through its final stages during Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday 1-3 June 2010 from 3.30-6pm and 7.30-10pm. You can watch or listen to the debates live here:
http://www.parliament.nz/en-NZ/AboutParl/SeeHear/PTV/
If you would like to influence the outcome of the debate and the future of Auckland you can contact the MPs for Auckland during the debate and tell them your views or request that they make statements or ask questions on your behalf. Their contact details are below. They will all have their Blackberries with them in the House, so they can receive your emails as the debate progresses.
Their details are listed on the Our Auckland website at:
http://www.ourauckland.org.nz/the-campaign/contact-auckland-mps/
The main issues you might want to raise with them are:
# The creation of 7 Council Controlled Organisations (CCOs) to run Transport, Water, Major Regional Facilities, The Waterfront Development Agency, Property Holdings, Tourism and Events, Growth and Development in advance of the Mayor and Council being elected.
# The Government appointed Board members of these CCOs.
# The fact that elected representatives will not be allowed to sit on the boards of CCOs.
# The lack of democratic accountability of these CCOs (a quarterly report is not sufficient).
# The lack of decision and bylaw making powers of Local Boards (CCOs can do both these things).
# The fact that the powers and roles of Local Boards are not enshrined in the legislation as promised.
# The lack of meaningful representation for Maori.
# The lack of permanent advisory panels for Pacific and Ethnic Peoples.
# The lack of representation for Youth, the Elderly and the Disabled.
This is our very last chance to participate in democratic debate around the future for our city - have your say!
Labour MP Phil Twyford will be tabling an amendment to the Bill which removes the Waterfront Development Agency, Transport CCO, and Water CCO and makes it explicit that the Auckland Council shall be able to determine what to do with each CCO once elected - you may want to support his stance and tell the Government MPs that you do and ask them to vote for it.
http://www.parliament.nz/en-NZ/AboutParl/SeeHear/PTV/
If you would like to influence the outcome of the debate and the future of Auckland you can contact the MPs for Auckland during the debate and tell them your views or request that they make statements or ask questions on your behalf. Their contact details are below. They will all have their Blackberries with them in the House, so they can receive your emails as the debate progresses.
Their details are listed on the Our Auckland website at:
http://www.ourauckland.org.nz/the-campaign/contact-auckland-mps/
The main issues you might want to raise with them are:
# The creation of 7 Council Controlled Organisations (CCOs) to run Transport, Water, Major Regional Facilities, The Waterfront Development Agency, Property Holdings, Tourism and Events, Growth and Development in advance of the Mayor and Council being elected.
# The Government appointed Board members of these CCOs.
# The fact that elected representatives will not be allowed to sit on the boards of CCOs.
# The lack of democratic accountability of these CCOs (a quarterly report is not sufficient).
# The lack of decision and bylaw making powers of Local Boards (CCOs can do both these things).
# The fact that the powers and roles of Local Boards are not enshrined in the legislation as promised.
# The lack of meaningful representation for Maori.
# The lack of permanent advisory panels for Pacific and Ethnic Peoples.
# The lack of representation for Youth, the Elderly and the Disabled.
This is our very last chance to participate in democratic debate around the future for our city - have your say!
Labour MP Phil Twyford will be tabling an amendment to the Bill which removes the Waterfront Development Agency, Transport CCO, and Water CCO and makes it explicit that the Auckland Council shall be able to determine what to do with each CCO once elected - you may want to support his stance and tell the Government MPs that you do and ask them to vote for it.
Sunday, May 30, 2010
OPEN LETTER TO GOVERNMENT
28 May 2010
Paula Bennett Nikki Kaye
MP for Waitakere MP for Auckland Central
429 Great North Road 82 College Hill
Henderson Freemans Bay
Dear Paula and Nikki,
We are writing this open letter to you as members of John Key’s Government. This letter is a request to table the issues outlined below before the committee sessions regarding the Local Government (Auckland Law Reform) Bill, currently before the House.
As you may be aware our organization has recently polled Aucklanders to find out their views on the Government proposals contained in this Bill. We had over 9,000 responses. Of these 96% do not approve of the way the Government is setting up the new Auckland Council, 95% do not think that enough attention has been paid to the wishes of Aucklanders and 94% do not think the Government has officially asked them what kind of Auckland they want.
In addition, 92% did not want core Council services such as water, transport, economic development, and tourism and events to be operated by corporate, unelected CCOs. In addition, 92% would not give their permission for CCOs to take charge of Auckland's most important assets.
95% thought that there should be a binding referendum of Aucklanders before significant assets like water, ports, airport shares, museums and stadia were sold or privatised.
90% wanted decisions about issues that affect their neighbourhood to be made by their Local Board, and 85% did not think it was fair that Local Boards could not make decisions and bylaws, but only make recommendations to the Auckland Council.
56% agreed that there should be dedicated seats for Maori on the Auckland Council and 67% agreed that there should be permanent Ethnic and Pacific Advisory Panels, as recommended by the Royal Commission.
88% thought that people living on the fringe of Auckland should be asked whether they wanted to be part of the new Auckland structure. Of those who responded only 17% came from Rodney, Franklin, Papakura or the Gulf Islands, with 81% coming from the metropolitan cities of Auckland, North Shore, Waitakere and Manukau.
We think that these results send a very clear message to the Government that the people of Auckland want a democratic city, not the corporate one that has been outlined in the Bill. Unfortunately the changes proposed by the Select Committee, although a step in the right direction, fall far short of adequately addressing these concerns.
Therefore we request that the Government amend the Bill to meet the following requirements. We then believe it would be acceptable to more Aucklanders than it is at present and form a solid foundation from which to lead Auckland forward to a more secure future for everyone.
• The decision regarding CCOs (which services should be delivered by them, if any, who is on the boards and how they are appointed) to be made by the incoming Mayor and Councillors and be based on their vision for Auckland not by the Government in advance.
• The setting up of CCOs to be delayed until after the new Council is elected and settled in. The status quo should remain until then.
• The Local Boards to have real decision-making powers and adequate budgets and resources allocated via an appropriate formula set out in legislation to deliver local services and local accountability.
• The Local Boards, Council and CCOs to be formally linked together so that decision making and accountability can be communicated, accountable, effective and efficient.
• The Pacific and Ethnic Boards to be made permanent to ensure New Zealand's most culturally diverse region has a strong and sustained influence in decision making.
• There to be a binding referendum (vote or poll) of the people of Auckland before any sale of substantial public assets can be made and for all public assets to be held on the people’s behalf by the Auckland Council and not be transferred to the CCOs.
• Requirements for CCOS to have public meetings, publish agendas and minutes, and consult on issues affecting communities to be set out clearly in legislation.
• Three dedicated Maori seats as per the recommendation of the Royal Commission.
We look forward to your response.
Yours sincerely
Mels Barton on behalf of
Our Auckland and all Aucklanders
Paula Bennett Nikki Kaye
MP for Waitakere MP for Auckland Central
429 Great North Road 82 College Hill
Henderson Freemans Bay
Dear Paula and Nikki,
We are writing this open letter to you as members of John Key’s Government. This letter is a request to table the issues outlined below before the committee sessions regarding the Local Government (Auckland Law Reform) Bill, currently before the House.
As you may be aware our organization has recently polled Aucklanders to find out their views on the Government proposals contained in this Bill. We had over 9,000 responses. Of these 96% do not approve of the way the Government is setting up the new Auckland Council, 95% do not think that enough attention has been paid to the wishes of Aucklanders and 94% do not think the Government has officially asked them what kind of Auckland they want.
In addition, 92% did not want core Council services such as water, transport, economic development, and tourism and events to be operated by corporate, unelected CCOs. In addition, 92% would not give their permission for CCOs to take charge of Auckland's most important assets.
95% thought that there should be a binding referendum of Aucklanders before significant assets like water, ports, airport shares, museums and stadia were sold or privatised.
90% wanted decisions about issues that affect their neighbourhood to be made by their Local Board, and 85% did not think it was fair that Local Boards could not make decisions and bylaws, but only make recommendations to the Auckland Council.
56% agreed that there should be dedicated seats for Maori on the Auckland Council and 67% agreed that there should be permanent Ethnic and Pacific Advisory Panels, as recommended by the Royal Commission.
88% thought that people living on the fringe of Auckland should be asked whether they wanted to be part of the new Auckland structure. Of those who responded only 17% came from Rodney, Franklin, Papakura or the Gulf Islands, with 81% coming from the metropolitan cities of Auckland, North Shore, Waitakere and Manukau.
We think that these results send a very clear message to the Government that the people of Auckland want a democratic city, not the corporate one that has been outlined in the Bill. Unfortunately the changes proposed by the Select Committee, although a step in the right direction, fall far short of adequately addressing these concerns.
Therefore we request that the Government amend the Bill to meet the following requirements. We then believe it would be acceptable to more Aucklanders than it is at present and form a solid foundation from which to lead Auckland forward to a more secure future for everyone.
• The decision regarding CCOs (which services should be delivered by them, if any, who is on the boards and how they are appointed) to be made by the incoming Mayor and Councillors and be based on their vision for Auckland not by the Government in advance.
• The setting up of CCOs to be delayed until after the new Council is elected and settled in. The status quo should remain until then.
• The Local Boards to have real decision-making powers and adequate budgets and resources allocated via an appropriate formula set out in legislation to deliver local services and local accountability.
• The Local Boards, Council and CCOs to be formally linked together so that decision making and accountability can be communicated, accountable, effective and efficient.
• The Pacific and Ethnic Boards to be made permanent to ensure New Zealand's most culturally diverse region has a strong and sustained influence in decision making.
• There to be a binding referendum (vote or poll) of the people of Auckland before any sale of substantial public assets can be made and for all public assets to be held on the people’s behalf by the Auckland Council and not be transferred to the CCOs.
• Requirements for CCOS to have public meetings, publish agendas and minutes, and consult on issues affecting communities to be set out clearly in legislation.
• Three dedicated Maori seats as per the recommendation of the Royal Commission.
We look forward to your response.
Yours sincerely
Mels Barton on behalf of
Our Auckland and all Aucklanders
OUR AUCKLAND DELIVERS OPEN LETTER TO GOVERNMENT
PRESS RELEASE
Embargoed until 6am Friday 28 May 2010
The Our Auckland coalition and supporters will be protesting outside the offices of National MPs Paula Bennett and Nikki Kaye today.
The group will deliver an Open Letter to the Government describing the views expressed by Aucklanders during the recent referendum that attracted over 9,000 votes.
The letter also describes the changes that Our Auckland would like to see incorporated into the Third Supercity Bill before it is passed.
Our Auckland spokesperson Mels Barton says it is the last chance for the Government to listen to the voices of Aucklanders.
“The messages we received via the referendum were really clear and the changes to the Bill proposed by the Select Committee just don’t go far enough to deliver the type of city that Aucklanders want.”
“We want a future for Auckland that everyone can support and move forward with together, not something that is divisive and elitist, with all the power vested in the few. We want a democratic Auckland, not a corporate one, and we hope the Government is listening.”
Embargoed until 6am Friday 28 May 2010
The Our Auckland coalition and supporters will be protesting outside the offices of National MPs Paula Bennett and Nikki Kaye today.
The group will deliver an Open Letter to the Government describing the views expressed by Aucklanders during the recent referendum that attracted over 9,000 votes.
The letter also describes the changes that Our Auckland would like to see incorporated into the Third Supercity Bill before it is passed.
Our Auckland spokesperson Mels Barton says it is the last chance for the Government to listen to the voices of Aucklanders.
“The messages we received via the referendum were really clear and the changes to the Bill proposed by the Select Committee just don’t go far enough to deliver the type of city that Aucklanders want.”
“We want a future for Auckland that everyone can support and move forward with together, not something that is divisive and elitist, with all the power vested in the few. We want a democratic Auckland, not a corporate one, and we hope the Government is listening.”
Tuesday, May 25, 2010
BE PART OF THE DEBATE ON OUR AUCKLAND
PRESS RELEASE
For immediate release: Wednesday 26 May 2010
The Our Auckland coalition is calling on Aucklanders to take part in the debate on the third and final Super City Bill, due to begin on Thursday May 28.
The group has published the phone numbers of all the Auckland Government MPs on its website at www.ourauckland.org.nz and is suggesting people contact them to let them know their views on the key aspects of the Bill.
“The Government has said they are listening to the views of Aucklanders, but we think the proposed changes are just tinkering around the edges, and a corporate city will still be the result instead of the democratic one that people have clearly said they want,” says spokesperson Mels Barton.
“Perhaps if the MPs actually hear from their constituents they will realise how important it is to deliver a city that is democratically accountable to the ratepayers and voters, and not one that is driven by big business interests. So we’re encouraging everyone in Auckland to pick up the phone, call their MP and tell them what they do and don’t want for their city.”
For immediate release: Wednesday 26 May 2010
The Our Auckland coalition is calling on Aucklanders to take part in the debate on the third and final Super City Bill, due to begin on Thursday May 28.
The group has published the phone numbers of all the Auckland Government MPs on its website at www.ourauckland.org.nz and is suggesting people contact them to let them know their views on the key aspects of the Bill.
“The Government has said they are listening to the views of Aucklanders, but we think the proposed changes are just tinkering around the edges, and a corporate city will still be the result instead of the democratic one that people have clearly said they want,” says spokesperson Mels Barton.
“Perhaps if the MPs actually hear from their constituents they will realise how important it is to deliver a city that is democratically accountable to the ratepayers and voters, and not one that is driven by big business interests. So we’re encouraging everyone in Auckland to pick up the phone, call their MP and tell them what they do and don’t want for their city.”
Monday, May 24, 2010
TINKERING NOT ENOUGH FOR OUR AUCKLAND
PRESS RELEASE
For immediate release – Tuesday 25 May 2010
TINKERING NOT ENOUGH FOR OUR AUCKLAND
The Government Select Committee has reported back on its recommendations for the 3rd Bill on Auckland Governance to set up the Super City. Some minor changes to the legislation have been proposed, but they do not go far enough for the regionwide coalition Our Auckland.
Spokesperson Mels Barton says the proposals are a step in the right direction, but it is too little, too late to satisfy Aucklanders that the Government is listening to them.
“Clearly the Government is surprised at the level of opposition to their proposals, so they have tried to soften the blow slightly, but they are still appointing the Boards of 7 CCOs to run basic services before the Council is elected, and that is just wrong.”
“The Mayor and Council should be deciding which CCOs they need and who should be on the Boards to fit their vision for Auckland’s future – this is the basis upon which they will be elected and they need to be allowed to deliver it. Spending the first few months sacking Board members and reappointing them is not a positive start to a new regime.”
There is still no certainty for the role of Local Boards in the proposals, with the Transition Agency planning to release yet another report closer to the elections. Mels Barton says this is far too late.
“How can people decide whether to stand for their Local Board if they don’t know the size of the job, what it will entail, whether it is full or part-time, or what they will get paid? The Government promised the roles of the Local Boards would be contained in the legislation and they have totally failed to deliver. Prospective candidates need this information now.”
“I think it shows their lack of understanding of Local Government and what will be needed at the coalface, as well as their desire to see as much power vested in the CCOs as possible. Local democracy is inefficient, it’s much quicker to get the select few to make all the decisions; the problem is they’re not the ones living with, or paying for the consequences.”
Other issues that Aucklanders have overwhelmingly expressed concern about have also been ignored in this report:
• The vesting of assets in CCOs and no referendum before they can be sold;
• Removing the right of Aucklanders to determine their participation in the reorganisation until after 2013, especially for those in Rodney, Franklin and Papakura;
• Removing the right for Aucklanders to decide to use MMP rather than First Past the Post to elect their representatives;
• No permanent Pacific and Ethnic advisory panels;
• No Maori seats, just a toothless advisory board;
• No representation for Youth
Mels Barton also does not trust the reassurances in the report that water will not be privatised, which can still happen after 2015.
“It seems a bit rich to be promising that water will not be privatised when at the same time another Bill is being introduced that will enable contracts for the operation of water services to be let to private companies for 35 years. Aucklanders are not stupid and the Government is undermining its standing in Auckland by lying to us. The public ownership of water is something that everyone supports because it is essential to the future health of our communities.”
For immediate release – Tuesday 25 May 2010
TINKERING NOT ENOUGH FOR OUR AUCKLAND
The Government Select Committee has reported back on its recommendations for the 3rd Bill on Auckland Governance to set up the Super City. Some minor changes to the legislation have been proposed, but they do not go far enough for the regionwide coalition Our Auckland.
Spokesperson Mels Barton says the proposals are a step in the right direction, but it is too little, too late to satisfy Aucklanders that the Government is listening to them.
“Clearly the Government is surprised at the level of opposition to their proposals, so they have tried to soften the blow slightly, but they are still appointing the Boards of 7 CCOs to run basic services before the Council is elected, and that is just wrong.”
“The Mayor and Council should be deciding which CCOs they need and who should be on the Boards to fit their vision for Auckland’s future – this is the basis upon which they will be elected and they need to be allowed to deliver it. Spending the first few months sacking Board members and reappointing them is not a positive start to a new regime.”
There is still no certainty for the role of Local Boards in the proposals, with the Transition Agency planning to release yet another report closer to the elections. Mels Barton says this is far too late.
“How can people decide whether to stand for their Local Board if they don’t know the size of the job, what it will entail, whether it is full or part-time, or what they will get paid? The Government promised the roles of the Local Boards would be contained in the legislation and they have totally failed to deliver. Prospective candidates need this information now.”
“I think it shows their lack of understanding of Local Government and what will be needed at the coalface, as well as their desire to see as much power vested in the CCOs as possible. Local democracy is inefficient, it’s much quicker to get the select few to make all the decisions; the problem is they’re not the ones living with, or paying for the consequences.”
Other issues that Aucklanders have overwhelmingly expressed concern about have also been ignored in this report:
• The vesting of assets in CCOs and no referendum before they can be sold;
• Removing the right of Aucklanders to determine their participation in the reorganisation until after 2013, especially for those in Rodney, Franklin and Papakura;
• Removing the right for Aucklanders to decide to use MMP rather than First Past the Post to elect their representatives;
• No permanent Pacific and Ethnic advisory panels;
• No Maori seats, just a toothless advisory board;
• No representation for Youth
Mels Barton also does not trust the reassurances in the report that water will not be privatised, which can still happen after 2015.
“It seems a bit rich to be promising that water will not be privatised when at the same time another Bill is being introduced that will enable contracts for the operation of water services to be let to private companies for 35 years. Aucklanders are not stupid and the Government is undermining its standing in Auckland by lying to us. The public ownership of water is something that everyone supports because it is essential to the future health of our communities.”
Sunday, May 23, 2010
SELECT COMMITTEE REPORT RELEASED
The Select Committee on Auckland Governance has released its report on the 3rd Auckland Bill today. Some changes are proposed in response to the overwhelming opposition from submitters on aspects of the proposals, however nothing substantial has changed.
There will still be 7 CCOs set up and their Boards appointed prior to the Auckland Council being elected, however the Chair & Deputy for each CCO will be appointed by the new Council and there will be some spare seats on the Boards for Council to appoint. Council now also have the ability to sack Board members from all CCOs from Day 1 and appoint new ones.
Roles and powers of the Local Boards have still not been defined. There are some suggestions, but they will not be able to make their own decisions or bylaws. Remuneration for Local Board members & Councilors will have to be defined by July 15.
CCOs will be able to make decisions and bylaws but will have to be more transparent & Council can instruct them to hold meetings that are open to the public. They will have to have regard to the Spatial Plan.
The Spatial Plan will have to have regard to the Waitakere Ranges Heritage Area Act and other local Acts.
The report tries to reassure that water privatisation and sale of public assets is not on the agenda, but the release of the Local Government Amendment Act Bill this week shows that this is clearly untrue.
Public assets will be transferred to CCOs.
The Pacific and Ethnic Advisory Panels will still only last for 1 term of 3 years.
The Maori Advisory Board will still have no power to influence Council decisions.
There will be no Youth Council.
You can download the full report here.
There will still be 7 CCOs set up and their Boards appointed prior to the Auckland Council being elected, however the Chair & Deputy for each CCO will be appointed by the new Council and there will be some spare seats on the Boards for Council to appoint. Council now also have the ability to sack Board members from all CCOs from Day 1 and appoint new ones.
Roles and powers of the Local Boards have still not been defined. There are some suggestions, but they will not be able to make their own decisions or bylaws. Remuneration for Local Board members & Councilors will have to be defined by July 15.
CCOs will be able to make decisions and bylaws but will have to be more transparent & Council can instruct them to hold meetings that are open to the public. They will have to have regard to the Spatial Plan.
The Spatial Plan will have to have regard to the Waitakere Ranges Heritage Area Act and other local Acts.
The report tries to reassure that water privatisation and sale of public assets is not on the agenda, but the release of the Local Government Amendment Act Bill this week shows that this is clearly untrue.
Public assets will be transferred to CCOs.
The Pacific and Ethnic Advisory Panels will still only last for 1 term of 3 years.
The Maori Advisory Board will still have no power to influence Council decisions.
There will be no Youth Council.
You can download the full report here.
Thursday, May 20, 2010
AUCKLANDERS REJECT GOVERNMENT PROCESS ON SUPERCITY
PRESS RELEASE
Embargoed until 6am Thursday 20 May 2010
The Our Auckland referendum results show a massive 96% of respondents do not approve of the way the Government is setting up the new Auckland Council. 95% do not think that enough attention has been paid to the wishes of Aucklanders and 94% do not think the Government has officially asked them what kind of Auckland they want.
Our Auckland spokesperson Mels Barton says that this shows how disenfranchised Aucklanders are from the decisions being made about their city. “The Government has lost the support of Aucklanders for these changes by throwing away the Royal Commission's recommendations, ignoring submissions and bulldozing ahead with unpopular plans too quickly and without proper consultation or consideration. They have no mandate from Aucklanders for the Government model that is being proposed.”
In addition, 92% did not want traditional council services like water, transport, economic development and tourism and events to be operated by corporate, unelected CCOs, and 92% would not give their permission for CCOs to take charge of Auckland's most important assets.
95% thought that there should be a binding referendum of Aucklanders before significant assets like water, ports, airport shares, museums and stadia were sold or privatised.
90% wanted decisions about issues that affect their neighbourhood to be made by their Local Board, and 85% did not think it was fair that Local Boards could not make decisions and bylaws, but only make recommendations to the Auckland Council.
Mels Barton says “People want local decisions to be made locally and for their assets to be controlled by democratically elected representatives, not by corporate CCOs. They have lost trust to the point that they want a binding referendum before key decisions affecting these assets are made. If the Government wants to win back Aucklanders then they need to start listening and give democratic control back to the city.”
“Slowing down the process of change by allowing the newly elected Council and Mayor to make decisions on what CCOs to set up and who should be on their boards would be a good start. Enabling Local Boards to be effective by giving them the power to make decisions and bylaws, along with realistic funding and resourcing, would restore some confidence that local voices will be heard.”
56% agreed that there should be dedicated seats for Maori on the Auckland Council and 67% agreed that there should be permanent Ethnic and Pacific Advisory Panels, as recommended by the Royal Commission.
88% thought that people living on the fringe of Auckland should be asked whether they wanted to be part of the new Auckland structure. Of those who responded only 17% came from Rodney, Franklin, Papakura or the Gulf Islands, with 81% coming from the metropolitan cities of Auckland, North Shore, Waitakere and Manukau.
Around 51% of people voted online and 49% via post or ballot box, with ballot boxes placed in every library in the Auckland Region apart from Franklin, where libraries are not council-run.
Mels Barton says the results show huge interest from all demographics, with particularly high counts recorded from the ballot boxes placed in Panmure Library and Mt Wellington's Riverside (Taha Awa) Community Centre, and the majority of the postal votes being from older people. “We even had one envelope with 19 votes from Epsom, Rodney Hide's electorate, all opposing the Government's process. So people from every walk of life are unhappy with the way this is being handled - and that must send a strong message to the Government to listen and take action to change things, while they still can. It's not too late to make the new Auckland into a democratic city, not a corporate one, and have an Auckland Council that all Aucklanders can feel part of and proud of.”
The total number of valid votes cast in 8 days was 8973.
Embargoed until 6am Thursday 20 May 2010
The Our Auckland referendum results show a massive 96% of respondents do not approve of the way the Government is setting up the new Auckland Council. 95% do not think that enough attention has been paid to the wishes of Aucklanders and 94% do not think the Government has officially asked them what kind of Auckland they want.
Our Auckland spokesperson Mels Barton says that this shows how disenfranchised Aucklanders are from the decisions being made about their city. “The Government has lost the support of Aucklanders for these changes by throwing away the Royal Commission's recommendations, ignoring submissions and bulldozing ahead with unpopular plans too quickly and without proper consultation or consideration. They have no mandate from Aucklanders for the Government model that is being proposed.”
In addition, 92% did not want traditional council services like water, transport, economic development and tourism and events to be operated by corporate, unelected CCOs, and 92% would not give their permission for CCOs to take charge of Auckland's most important assets.
95% thought that there should be a binding referendum of Aucklanders before significant assets like water, ports, airport shares, museums and stadia were sold or privatised.
90% wanted decisions about issues that affect their neighbourhood to be made by their Local Board, and 85% did not think it was fair that Local Boards could not make decisions and bylaws, but only make recommendations to the Auckland Council.
Mels Barton says “People want local decisions to be made locally and for their assets to be controlled by democratically elected representatives, not by corporate CCOs. They have lost trust to the point that they want a binding referendum before key decisions affecting these assets are made. If the Government wants to win back Aucklanders then they need to start listening and give democratic control back to the city.”
“Slowing down the process of change by allowing the newly elected Council and Mayor to make decisions on what CCOs to set up and who should be on their boards would be a good start. Enabling Local Boards to be effective by giving them the power to make decisions and bylaws, along with realistic funding and resourcing, would restore some confidence that local voices will be heard.”
56% agreed that there should be dedicated seats for Maori on the Auckland Council and 67% agreed that there should be permanent Ethnic and Pacific Advisory Panels, as recommended by the Royal Commission.
88% thought that people living on the fringe of Auckland should be asked whether they wanted to be part of the new Auckland structure. Of those who responded only 17% came from Rodney, Franklin, Papakura or the Gulf Islands, with 81% coming from the metropolitan cities of Auckland, North Shore, Waitakere and Manukau.
Around 51% of people voted online and 49% via post or ballot box, with ballot boxes placed in every library in the Auckland Region apart from Franklin, where libraries are not council-run.
Mels Barton says the results show huge interest from all demographics, with particularly high counts recorded from the ballot boxes placed in Panmure Library and Mt Wellington's Riverside (Taha Awa) Community Centre, and the majority of the postal votes being from older people. “We even had one envelope with 19 votes from Epsom, Rodney Hide's electorate, all opposing the Government's process. So people from every walk of life are unhappy with the way this is being handled - and that must send a strong message to the Government to listen and take action to change things, while they still can. It's not too late to make the new Auckland into a democratic city, not a corporate one, and have an Auckland Council that all Aucklanders can feel part of and proud of.”
The total number of valid votes cast in 8 days was 8973.
Thursday, May 13, 2010
LAST CHANCE TO VOTE IN SUPERCITY REFERENDUM
PRESS RELEASE - OUR AUCKLAND
For immediate release – Thursday 13 May 2010
Voting closes at 5pm on Friday 14 May in the Super City “People’s Referendum” run by the coalition group Our Auckland.
If you haven’t yet voted it’s not too late to have your say on the shape of the future Auckland that you want.
Our Auckland spokesperson Mels Barton says the campaign has gone well so far. “We’ve had great feedback from all over the Region with people calling and emailing to say thanks for doing this and giving us a voice.”
“We want everyone to participate and tell the Government what kind of Auckland they want – a democratic or a corporate city – it’s our Auckland and our future at stake here. So vote now and make sure your family and friends vote too.”
You can vote online at www.ourauckland.org.nz or at a ballot box. These are located in every library in the Region (other than Franklin where the libraries are not Council-run).
Anyone wishing to help the campaign should contact the team on ourauckland@gmail.com or call the hotline on 021 210 1711.
The results will be published in The Aucklander on Thursday 20 May.
For immediate release – Thursday 13 May 2010
Voting closes at 5pm on Friday 14 May in the Super City “People’s Referendum” run by the coalition group Our Auckland.
If you haven’t yet voted it’s not too late to have your say on the shape of the future Auckland that you want.
Our Auckland spokesperson Mels Barton says the campaign has gone well so far. “We’ve had great feedback from all over the Region with people calling and emailing to say thanks for doing this and giving us a voice.”
“We want everyone to participate and tell the Government what kind of Auckland they want – a democratic or a corporate city – it’s our Auckland and our future at stake here. So vote now and make sure your family and friends vote too.”
You can vote online at www.ourauckland.org.nz or at a ballot box. These are located in every library in the Region (other than Franklin where the libraries are not Council-run).
Anyone wishing to help the campaign should contact the team on ourauckland@gmail.com or call the hotline on 021 210 1711.
The results will be published in The Aucklander on Thursday 20 May.
Tuesday, May 4, 2010
MAKE SURE YOU HAVE YOUR SAY ON THE SUPER CITY
PRESS RELEASE
For immediate release: Wednesday 5 May 2010
Our Auckland invites everyone interested in the Super City Referendum to help spread the word about Our Auckland's “Weekend of Action” by attending a meeting at 10am on Saturday 8 May at the Ponsonby Community Centre.
“We want everyone to have their say on the Super City, and not everyone has access to the internet, so our aim is to get ballot papers and ballot boxes out to every corner and community of the Auckland Region. To do that we need help so come along and pick up a voting pack for your group or community,” says spokesperson Mels Barton from Waitakere City.
“We only have eight days for voting from May 6-14, so getting people involved is vital. We need everyone to spread the word and make sure everyone casts their vote - it's the only one you're going to get.”
Voting will be possible via the Our Auckland website at www.ourauckland.org.nz and a ballot paper will be printed in The Aucklander newspaper (free with the NZ Herald on Thursday 6 May). There will also be a more detailed survey on the website for people to express their views.
Photocopies of the ballot paper are welcome, and completed papers can be sent to Our Auckland, The Aucklander, PO Box 32, Auckland Mail Centre. Ballot boxes will also be available at libraries in North Shore City and Rodney District.
Volunteers can also sign up to the Our Auckland group on Facebook, via the website at www.ourauckland.org.nz or follow OurAuckland on Twitter.
The Our Auckland campaign hotline is 021 210 1711.
For immediate release: Wednesday 5 May 2010
Our Auckland invites everyone interested in the Super City Referendum to help spread the word about Our Auckland's “Weekend of Action” by attending a meeting at 10am on Saturday 8 May at the Ponsonby Community Centre.
“We want everyone to have their say on the Super City, and not everyone has access to the internet, so our aim is to get ballot papers and ballot boxes out to every corner and community of the Auckland Region. To do that we need help so come along and pick up a voting pack for your group or community,” says spokesperson Mels Barton from Waitakere City.
“We only have eight days for voting from May 6-14, so getting people involved is vital. We need everyone to spread the word and make sure everyone casts their vote - it's the only one you're going to get.”
Voting will be possible via the Our Auckland website at www.ourauckland.org.nz and a ballot paper will be printed in The Aucklander newspaper (free with the NZ Herald on Thursday 6 May). There will also be a more detailed survey on the website for people to express their views.
Photocopies of the ballot paper are welcome, and completed papers can be sent to Our Auckland, The Aucklander, PO Box 32, Auckland Mail Centre. Ballot boxes will also be available at libraries in North Shore City and Rodney District.
Volunteers can also sign up to the Our Auckland group on Facebook, via the website at www.ourauckland.org.nz or follow OurAuckland on Twitter.
The Our Auckland campaign hotline is 021 210 1711.
Wednesday, April 28, 2010
OUR AUCKLAND gives you your say at last
The Aucklander has launched the OUR AUCKLAND campaign today to give Aucklanders their right to have a say on the "Super City". Read all about it here:
http://www.theaucklander.co.nz/local/news/our-auckland/3913141/
http://www.theaucklander.co.nz/local/news/our-auckland/3913141/
John Key on Auckland
Read what John Key had to say in Question Time when pressed on Auckland issues here:
http://www.parliament.nz/en-NZ/PB/Business/QOA/0/9/7/49HansQ_20100427_00000003-3-Auckland-Local-Government-Reform-Input.htm
http://www.parliament.nz/en-NZ/PB/Business/QOA/0/9/7/49HansQ_20100427_00000003-3-Auckland-Local-Government-Reform-Input.htm
Tuesday, April 27, 2010
HAVE YOUR SAY ON OUR AUCKLAND
PRESS RELEASE
Embargoed until 8am on Wednesday 28 April 2010.
HAVE YOUR SAY ON OUR AUCKLAND
A regionwide coalition called Our Auckland is urging Aucklanders to have a say on the Government’s “Super City” proposals.
Formed by a broad range of community groups and individuals from across the Auckland Region, the group plans to launch its campaign on Thursday 29 April.
Our Auckland spokesperson Mels Barton said “Despite the Government promising to consult Aucklanders’ about their plans for the reorganisation of councils in the Region, they have never done so. We think it’s about time someone asked ordinary people for their views, since they are the ones paying for these changes. The Government hasn’t done it, so we will, because after all it’s our city, our assets and our rates and Aucklanders deserve to have a say.”
Find out more by reading The Aucklander on Thursday 29 April (The Aucklander comes free with the NZ Herald or from your local library).
The Our Auckland website will go live this week at www.ourauckland.org.nz
Comment:
Mels Barton 09 816 8337 or 021 213 7779
Embargoed until 8am on Wednesday 28 April 2010.
HAVE YOUR SAY ON OUR AUCKLAND
A regionwide coalition called Our Auckland is urging Aucklanders to have a say on the Government’s “Super City” proposals.
Formed by a broad range of community groups and individuals from across the Auckland Region, the group plans to launch its campaign on Thursday 29 April.
Our Auckland spokesperson Mels Barton said “Despite the Government promising to consult Aucklanders’ about their plans for the reorganisation of councils in the Region, they have never done so. We think it’s about time someone asked ordinary people for their views, since they are the ones paying for these changes. The Government hasn’t done it, so we will, because after all it’s our city, our assets and our rates and Aucklanders deserve to have a say.”
Find out more by reading The Aucklander on Thursday 29 April (The Aucklander comes free with the NZ Herald or from your local library).
The Our Auckland website will go live this week at www.ourauckland.org.nz
Comment:
Mels Barton 09 816 8337 or 021 213 7779
Monday, April 26, 2010
Phil Goff's speech on Auckland 26 April 2010
You can read Phil Goff's speech on what Labour will do about the Super City if elected here.
Just to clarify, he was asked a question re Maori representation and confirmed that yes Labour continued to support Maori seats on the Auckland Council.
Just to clarify, he was asked a question re Maori representation and confirmed that yes Labour continued to support Maori seats on the Auckland Council.
Friday, April 23, 2010
Phil Goff speaks about Labour's vision for Auckland
Labour leader Phil Goff is going to give a major speech, setting out Labour's vision for Auckland and their plans to fix the Super City.
You are welcome to bring friends and family along if they're available. The speech is open to the public.
Monday, April 26, 2010
12:00pm - 2:00pm
Mt Albert War Memorial Hall, Corner Wairere Avenue and New North Road, Mt Albert
You are welcome to bring friends and family along if they're available. The speech is open to the public.
Monday, April 26, 2010
12:00pm - 2:00pm
Mt Albert War Memorial Hall, Corner Wairere Avenue and New North Road, Mt Albert
Tuesday, April 20, 2010
Supercity Concerns Real
Manukau Courier
Last updated 05:00 20/04/2010
http://www.stuff.co.nz/auckland/local-news/manukau-courier/3596471/Supercity-concerns-real
OPPOSITION to the new Auckland supercity structure is well-founded and not simply a media campaign as claimed by Local Government Minister Rodney Hide, Manukau mayor Len Brown says.
Speaking on talkback radio last week Mr Hide claimed most of the issues around the Auckland supercity have been substantially misrepresented.
Criticism of the structure of the new community boards and the set up of council controlled organisations amounts to a political media campaign, rather than a considered analysis, he says.
But Mr Brown says there is a genuine lack of knowledge about what is happening in the community.
"At the many public meetings I am doing around the region, I spend a lot of time explaining the structure and how the council will function," he says.
"The Government only has itself to blame for that and the widespread concerns. The supercity plan put forward by the Royal Commission has been substantially altered and many in the Auckland region now fear for their local voice in the new structure." He says the Government has made a number of major mistakes including:
- It needed to put into legislation clear roles, functions and responsibilities for the local boards. It refuses to do so;
- It should not have legislated for council-controlled organisations – these should have been left to the new council to decide and establish;
- It should not have established a powerful transport council-controlled organisation when that will be a key issue for the new mayor and council to grapple with;
- Having bulldozed ahead with the council-controlled organisations, the Government should be giving councils a say on the directors but it refuses to do so.
"Failing to listen to the concerns of Aucklanders is the reason for widespread discontent – not any media campaign," Mr Brown says.
"Mr Hide and the Government still have time to amend the third bill. `If they did so they might find some of the opposition might lessen."
Last updated 05:00 20/04/2010
http://www.stuff.co.nz/auckland/local-news/manukau-courier/3596471/Supercity-concerns-real
OPPOSITION to the new Auckland supercity structure is well-founded and not simply a media campaign as claimed by Local Government Minister Rodney Hide, Manukau mayor Len Brown says.
Speaking on talkback radio last week Mr Hide claimed most of the issues around the Auckland supercity have been substantially misrepresented.
Criticism of the structure of the new community boards and the set up of council controlled organisations amounts to a political media campaign, rather than a considered analysis, he says.
But Mr Brown says there is a genuine lack of knowledge about what is happening in the community.
"At the many public meetings I am doing around the region, I spend a lot of time explaining the structure and how the council will function," he says.
"The Government only has itself to blame for that and the widespread concerns. The supercity plan put forward by the Royal Commission has been substantially altered and many in the Auckland region now fear for their local voice in the new structure." He says the Government has made a number of major mistakes including:
- It needed to put into legislation clear roles, functions and responsibilities for the local boards. It refuses to do so;
- It should not have legislated for council-controlled organisations – these should have been left to the new council to decide and establish;
- It should not have established a powerful transport council-controlled organisation when that will be a key issue for the new mayor and council to grapple with;
- Having bulldozed ahead with the council-controlled organisations, the Government should be giving councils a say on the directors but it refuses to do so.
"Failing to listen to the concerns of Aucklanders is the reason for widespread discontent – not any media campaign," Mr Brown says.
"Mr Hide and the Government still have time to amend the third bill. `If they did so they might find some of the opposition might lessen."
Sunday, April 18, 2010
Alex Swney: One simple step to avoid spectacular failure
* Alex Swney is chief executive officer of Auckland's Heart of the City business organisation.
4:00 AM Thursday Apr 15, 2010
The message came from Apollo 13 40 years ago: "Houston, we have a problem." A similar message sounds over Auckland today.
Proposals for Auckland to be run by seven large council-controlled organisations with appointed boards have quite rightly drawn a lot of flak. The current proposals render Auckland's elected representatives - our mayor, councillors and local board members - relatively impotent.
We need to modify the proposals to restore elected representative authority and power, giving our mayor and councillors more direct and fast control over all of the operations of the city council and its implementation agencies.
If you want Aucklanders to engage with local government, you don't go hiding decisions in the board rooms of appointed directors.
Luckily for the Government, the change required is straightforward and feasible. Keep the controlled organisations but drop the appointed boards. They would essentially add a contradictory third tier to the two-tier (one council, 20 local boards) system we have finally decided on.
Surely the Minister of "getting back to basics", Rodney Hide, isn't supporting what is, in effect, an extra tier of government?
There has been plenty of opposition raised about the unelected council-controlled organisations. The recent Herald headline "Who'd be mayor if you can head a CCO" successfully summarised much of it.
The suggestion past politicians have failed Auckland so now we must replace them is off beam and provides no justification for having unelected appointed directors running the show.
What happened in the past is we've had eight councils and eight bureaucracies - that has been the problem.
Appointed directors will have too much power with no requirement to listen to the public. These organisations are going to make decisions which shape our communities, and we and our elected representatives should have greater control over them than that offered by Statements of Intent and the Local Government Official Information and Meetings Act.
For example, a deal was struck between the Ports of Auckland, Sea+City and Golden Bay Cement for the latter to build a cement distribution centre on the waterfront, underpinned by a 35-year lease. Yes, we need to look at supporting commerce, but the point here is the ink was dry on the contracts before elected representatives such as the mayor and the chairman of the Finance Committee even knew about it.
We've finally got rid of seven councils, but under this proposal all we are doing is replacing seven cities with seven council-controlled organisations, which will have their own boards, chief executives, senior management teams, communications and media teams, legal advisers, planners, consultants and more. That spells more fragmentation, more duplication, more cost and less cohesion.
We now have the Auckland Regional Council, Auckland City, Auckland Regional Holdings, Sea+City, Ports of Auckland and Auckland Regional Transport Authority all having some say about our waterfront today. Under the new proposals, we'll have the Auckland Council, Council Investments, the Waterfront Development Agency, Ports of Auckland and the Transport Authority all having a say tomorrow. What has really changed?
Policies, priorities, plans and even large projects should be determined by the mayor, council and local boards and the work of the controlled organisations, where they are needed, limited primarily to implementation.
All of the issues above can be solved in one simple step: replace the proposed appointed directors with elected representatives. Use the functional committees of council as boards, and have the controlled organisations and chief executive reporting to them.
We should redefine the role of the council-controlled organisations more clearly as organisations that carry out the work agreed on by our elected politicians. After all, it's how they do it at central Government.
Quote from the Ministry of Education's website: "The Ministry of Education works directly for the Minister of Education and Minister for Tertiary Education, and the Associate Ministers of Education." There is no intervening board of directors.
Similarly, the chief executive of Auckland Transport should work directly with the chair of the Land Use and Transport Committee. So would the chief planning officer of council, to get better integration at all levels of council's work.
There is also an opportunity to consider the role of an ombudsman office to provide an impartial source of assistance in the resolution of disputes between council organisations, or the council and the Auckland public.
At present, public issues and concerns are often muffled by the bureaucracy. The independence of an ombudsman would go a long way to correct that.
Retaining the council-controlled organisations but dropping the appointed directors in favour of councillors fixes myriad problems, and the third bill provides the opportunity to make any changes to previous acts to effect this.
If Government ministers do not make this sort of change to their plans, then they run the risk of the Auckland governance changes they are responsible for being remembered in the same vein as Apollo 13 - a "successful failure".
4:00 AM Thursday Apr 15, 2010
The message came from Apollo 13 40 years ago: "Houston, we have a problem." A similar message sounds over Auckland today.
Proposals for Auckland to be run by seven large council-controlled organisations with appointed boards have quite rightly drawn a lot of flak. The current proposals render Auckland's elected representatives - our mayor, councillors and local board members - relatively impotent.
We need to modify the proposals to restore elected representative authority and power, giving our mayor and councillors more direct and fast control over all of the operations of the city council and its implementation agencies.
If you want Aucklanders to engage with local government, you don't go hiding decisions in the board rooms of appointed directors.
Luckily for the Government, the change required is straightforward and feasible. Keep the controlled organisations but drop the appointed boards. They would essentially add a contradictory third tier to the two-tier (one council, 20 local boards) system we have finally decided on.
Surely the Minister of "getting back to basics", Rodney Hide, isn't supporting what is, in effect, an extra tier of government?
There has been plenty of opposition raised about the unelected council-controlled organisations. The recent Herald headline "Who'd be mayor if you can head a CCO" successfully summarised much of it.
The suggestion past politicians have failed Auckland so now we must replace them is off beam and provides no justification for having unelected appointed directors running the show.
What happened in the past is we've had eight councils and eight bureaucracies - that has been the problem.
Appointed directors will have too much power with no requirement to listen to the public. These organisations are going to make decisions which shape our communities, and we and our elected representatives should have greater control over them than that offered by Statements of Intent and the Local Government Official Information and Meetings Act.
For example, a deal was struck between the Ports of Auckland, Sea+City and Golden Bay Cement for the latter to build a cement distribution centre on the waterfront, underpinned by a 35-year lease. Yes, we need to look at supporting commerce, but the point here is the ink was dry on the contracts before elected representatives such as the mayor and the chairman of the Finance Committee even knew about it.
We've finally got rid of seven councils, but under this proposal all we are doing is replacing seven cities with seven council-controlled organisations, which will have their own boards, chief executives, senior management teams, communications and media teams, legal advisers, planners, consultants and more. That spells more fragmentation, more duplication, more cost and less cohesion.
We now have the Auckland Regional Council, Auckland City, Auckland Regional Holdings, Sea+City, Ports of Auckland and Auckland Regional Transport Authority all having some say about our waterfront today. Under the new proposals, we'll have the Auckland Council, Council Investments, the Waterfront Development Agency, Ports of Auckland and the Transport Authority all having a say tomorrow. What has really changed?
Policies, priorities, plans and even large projects should be determined by the mayor, council and local boards and the work of the controlled organisations, where they are needed, limited primarily to implementation.
All of the issues above can be solved in one simple step: replace the proposed appointed directors with elected representatives. Use the functional committees of council as boards, and have the controlled organisations and chief executive reporting to them.
We should redefine the role of the council-controlled organisations more clearly as organisations that carry out the work agreed on by our elected politicians. After all, it's how they do it at central Government.
Quote from the Ministry of Education's website: "The Ministry of Education works directly for the Minister of Education and Minister for Tertiary Education, and the Associate Ministers of Education." There is no intervening board of directors.
Similarly, the chief executive of Auckland Transport should work directly with the chair of the Land Use and Transport Committee. So would the chief planning officer of council, to get better integration at all levels of council's work.
There is also an opportunity to consider the role of an ombudsman office to provide an impartial source of assistance in the resolution of disputes between council organisations, or the council and the Auckland public.
At present, public issues and concerns are often muffled by the bureaucracy. The independence of an ombudsman would go a long way to correct that.
Retaining the council-controlled organisations but dropping the appointed directors in favour of councillors fixes myriad problems, and the third bill provides the opportunity to make any changes to previous acts to effect this.
If Government ministers do not make this sort of change to their plans, then they run the risk of the Auckland governance changes they are responsible for being remembered in the same vein as Apollo 13 - a "successful failure".
Thursday, April 15, 2010
Auckland Community in Danger of being Flogged-off by ATA
PRESS RELEASE by Dr Grant Gillon
"It is disturbing to learn that the Auckland Transition Authority is assessing community assets, across the region, for their potential for sale" said North Shore City Councillor Grant Gillon today.
North Shore communities will be rightly concerned that an unelected body is eyeing up their hard-earned facilities apparently to pay for Auckland Council transition costs.
I am pleased that Council has for some time worked hard to ensure the stability and security of lease for most if not all of our valued community groups. But it is worrying an appointed body is assessing the City's property for possible disposal. It is also concerning that our community groups might be forced to pay unaffordable 'market rates' for council owned halls and park use.
Most of our facilities sit on reserve status land and should be safe from sale however this does not prevent the imposition, by the ATA, of imposingunaffordable market rentals when leases are up for renewal.
However, there are community groups using Council faciliies in designated commercial or residential areas and not on reserve land. These properties are in danger of being flogged off to pay for Rodney Hide's experiment. Those most at risk include some of our community houses.
"The decision of what community property the Auckland Council should retain or sell must be solely the prerogative of the existing Council and community board members and then after November 1st the incoming elected members of the Auckland Council and the new Local Boards", said Grant Gillon.
Dr Grant Gillon
0274764679
Grant.gillon@northshorecity.govt.nz
North Shore City Council
1 The Strand, Takapuna
Private Bag 93500, Takapuna,
North Shore City, New Zealand
"It is disturbing to learn that the Auckland Transition Authority is assessing community assets, across the region, for their potential for sale" said North Shore City Councillor Grant Gillon today.
North Shore communities will be rightly concerned that an unelected body is eyeing up their hard-earned facilities apparently to pay for Auckland Council transition costs.
I am pleased that Council has for some time worked hard to ensure the stability and security of lease for most if not all of our valued community groups. But it is worrying an appointed body is assessing the City's property for possible disposal. It is also concerning that our community groups might be forced to pay unaffordable 'market rates' for council owned halls and park use.
Most of our facilities sit on reserve status land and should be safe from sale however this does not prevent the imposition, by the ATA, of imposingunaffordable market rentals when leases are up for renewal.
However, there are community groups using Council faciliies in designated commercial or residential areas and not on reserve land. These properties are in danger of being flogged off to pay for Rodney Hide's experiment. Those most at risk include some of our community houses.
"The decision of what community property the Auckland Council should retain or sell must be solely the prerogative of the existing Council and community board members and then after November 1st the incoming elected members of the Auckland Council and the new Local Boards", said Grant Gillon.
Dr Grant Gillon
0274764679
Grant.gillon@northshorecity.govt.nz
North Shore City Council
1 The Strand, Takapuna
Private Bag 93500, Takapuna,
North Shore City, New Zealand
Tuesday, April 13, 2010
Super City Information
If you'd like to find out more about what's happening in Auckland's reorganisation of local government there is a lot of information on this AUT site:
http://www.ipp.org.nz/lgpastseminars.htm
http://www.ipp.org.nz/lgpastseminars.htm
Tuesday, April 6, 2010
Community organises to win ‘Super’ City elections
A new community coalition, Future West, has formed to make sure West Aucklanders get the best possible outcome from the ‘Super’ city mess. The coalition’s goal is to get strong, progressive local people elected, so the Waitakere way is kept alive in the new, amalgamated structure. The coalition backs community-power and keeping community assets like libraries, pools and water in community control. It wants safer streets, local jobs, better public transport and to see the Eco-City values spread across the region. It also supports Maori representation on Council.
Future West will co-ordinate, support and fundraise for a group of candidates that share these values and invites applications from people interested in standing in the Waitakere and Whau wards for Council, the Local Boards, Health Board and Licensing Trust seats this year. The coalition will be working with the City Vision team to select the best possible candidates for the Whau Ward.
Future West is also asking for volunteers to fundraise, deliver leaflets or display signs. People from all walks of life, all ages and all ethnicities are warmly invited to seek support as candidates or to get involved in the campaign.
The coalition includes independent West Auckland community groups and is supported by both the Green Party and the Labour Party. The first ‘Super’ City elections will be held in October this year and will be crucial in determining the future West Aucklanders enjoy.
For more information, to volunteer or to make a donation contact Mels Barton at mels@wombatsenvironmental.co.nz or phone 816 8337 or 021 213 7779.
Media contact: For more information contact
Mels Barton on 021 213 7779 or mels@wombatsenvironmental.co.nz
Tony Dunn on 021 812 840 or tony.dunn@greens.org.nz
Or Greg Presland on 021998411 or walaw@paradise.net.nz
Future West will co-ordinate, support and fundraise for a group of candidates that share these values and invites applications from people interested in standing in the Waitakere and Whau wards for Council, the Local Boards, Health Board and Licensing Trust seats this year. The coalition will be working with the City Vision team to select the best possible candidates for the Whau Ward.
Future West is also asking for volunteers to fundraise, deliver leaflets or display signs. People from all walks of life, all ages and all ethnicities are warmly invited to seek support as candidates or to get involved in the campaign.
The coalition includes independent West Auckland community groups and is supported by both the Green Party and the Labour Party. The first ‘Super’ City elections will be held in October this year and will be crucial in determining the future West Aucklanders enjoy.
For more information, to volunteer or to make a donation contact Mels Barton at mels@wombatsenvironmental.co.nz or phone 816 8337 or 021 213 7779.
Media contact: For more information contact
Mels Barton on 021 213 7779 or mels@wombatsenvironmental.co.nz
Tony Dunn on 021 812 840 or tony.dunn@greens.org.nz
Or Greg Presland on 021998411 or walaw@paradise.net.nz
Monday, March 15, 2010
MEET LEN BROWN
GAG invites you to meet Len Brown and find out what he can do for West Auckland if he becomes Super Mayor.
Come along, bring your friends, and ask him your questions.
Kelston Community Centre, Great North Road.
Weds 24 March at 7pm
Come along, bring your friends, and ask him your questions.
Kelston Community Centre, Great North Road.
Weds 24 March at 7pm
Tuesday, March 9, 2010
Waitakere District Plan Changes
Waitakere City Council want to change the District Plan in ways that could seriously damage the Heritage Area.
Watch this video on YouTube to find out how and what you can do to help:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YgIz_mOoKH0
If you'd like to make a submission and email the Waitakere City Councillors to tell them your views, you have until 5pm on Friday 12 March to do so.
All the information you need as well as a Submission Guide and a simple submission form are available on the WRPS website.
Watch this video on YouTube to find out how and what you can do to help:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YgIz_mOoKH0
If you'd like to make a submission and email the Waitakere City Councillors to tell them your views, you have until 5pm on Friday 12 March to do so.
All the information you need as well as a Submission Guide and a simple submission form are available on the WRPS website.
Wednesday, March 3, 2010
Paula Bennett & Anne Tolley "Public" Meeting
Paula Bennett has invited Education Minister Anne Tolley to come out west and talk about National Standards. Only she seems to be keeping it very quiet for some reason.
A small ad on p8 of the Western Leader isn't really putting it out there.
Obviously they're not expecting many people as they're holding it at Bennett's office, so make sure you bring your own chair.
GAG will be there so please join us at 429 Great North Road, Henderson on Thursday March 4 at 6.30pm
A small ad on p8 of the Western Leader isn't really putting it out there.
Obviously they're not expecting many people as they're holding it at Bennett's office, so make sure you bring your own chair.
GAG will be there so please join us at 429 Great North Road, Henderson on Thursday March 4 at 6.30pm
Wednesday, February 3, 2010
SUBMIT ON THE 3RD SUPER CITY BILL
The 3rd super city bill is currently open for submissions until 12 Feb.
You can download the bill from here:
http://www.legislation.govt.nz/bill/government/2009/0112/latest/viewpdf.aspx
This bill opens the way for privatisation of Auckland's assets, including water. It also describes how council services will be mainly operated by CCOs (Council Controlled Organisations) which will have little democratic control & are essentially semi-privatised. Current egs of CCOs include Metrowater, Watercare and Waitakere Enterprise.
The bill is vague on what roles the Local Boards will play & what they will be responsible for. In fact its hard to see what the Auckland Council will actually be making decisions on because most of the important stuff will be done by the CCOs, so the Local Boards will have very little of importance delegated to them.
Democracy... hmmmm.
You may like to attend one of the public meetings being run by the Labour Party & Greens to learn more about this bill, how it will affect you & how to make a submission.
Details here:
http://labour.org.nz/news/labour-and-greens-run-public-meetings-super-city-bill
Mt Albert/Mt Roskill - 7.00 - 8.30pm, Monday 8th February, Owairaka Primary School, 113-115 Richardson Road, Mt Albert, hosted by Phil Twyford, David Clendon, David Shearer and Carmel Sepuloni
Kumeu Community Hall, Access Road, Kumeu, 8pm Tuesday 9 February. Chaired by Rodney Councillor Suzanne Weld, David Clendon of the Greens and Phil Twyford of Labour will be speaking, meeting hosted in association with the Kumeu Residents and Ratepayers Association.
Su’a William Sio MP and Ross Robertson MP are hosting a meeting in Mangere: 5.30 – 7 pm Monday 8 February at the Nga Tapuwae Hall, 253 Buckland Rd, Mangere.
There is advice on how to make a submission on this bill on the Green's website here:
http://www.greens.org.nz/actionalerts/submission-guide-local-government-auckland-law-reform-bill
But basically its really easy - the secret is to keep it simple:
- Stick to a few key points, no need to write an essay.
- Talk about the main things that concern you, don't try to analyse the bill itself.
- Illustrate with real examples and tell your story, make it personal it will have more impact.
- Say you want to speak to your submission, then when you do you can provide extra written information if you want to (get 3 bites at the cherry of making your point).
- Go to your MP (especially if they are National or ACT) and tell them you are unhappy with the undemocratic way this is being forced onto Aucklanders.
- Ask GAG for help if you need it - call the GAG submission helpline on 021 213 7779 :)
Send your submission:
By post (2 copies) to:
Clerk of the Committee
Auckland Governance Legislation Select Committee
Select Committee Office
Freepost Parliament
Wellington
Or you can submit using the online form here:
http://www.parliament.nz/en-NZ/PB/SC/MakeSub/6/3/a/49SCAGL_SCF_00DBHOH_BILL9729_1-Local-Government-Auckland-Law-Reform.htm#captcha
Good luck!
You can download the bill from here:
http://www.legislation.govt.nz/bill/government/2009/0112/latest/viewpdf.aspx
This bill opens the way for privatisation of Auckland's assets, including water. It also describes how council services will be mainly operated by CCOs (Council Controlled Organisations) which will have little democratic control & are essentially semi-privatised. Current egs of CCOs include Metrowater, Watercare and Waitakere Enterprise.
The bill is vague on what roles the Local Boards will play & what they will be responsible for. In fact its hard to see what the Auckland Council will actually be making decisions on because most of the important stuff will be done by the CCOs, so the Local Boards will have very little of importance delegated to them.
Democracy... hmmmm.
You may like to attend one of the public meetings being run by the Labour Party & Greens to learn more about this bill, how it will affect you & how to make a submission.
Details here:
http://labour.org.nz/news/labour-and-greens-run-public-meetings-super-city-bill
Mt Albert/Mt Roskill - 7.00 - 8.30pm, Monday 8th February, Owairaka Primary School, 113-115 Richardson Road, Mt Albert, hosted by Phil Twyford, David Clendon, David Shearer and Carmel Sepuloni
Kumeu Community Hall, Access Road, Kumeu, 8pm Tuesday 9 February. Chaired by Rodney Councillor Suzanne Weld, David Clendon of the Greens and Phil Twyford of Labour will be speaking, meeting hosted in association with the Kumeu Residents and Ratepayers Association.
Su’a William Sio MP and Ross Robertson MP are hosting a meeting in Mangere: 5.30 – 7 pm Monday 8 February at the Nga Tapuwae Hall, 253 Buckland Rd, Mangere.
There is advice on how to make a submission on this bill on the Green's website here:
http://www.greens.org.nz/actionalerts/submission-guide-local-government-auckland-law-reform-bill
But basically its really easy - the secret is to keep it simple:
- Stick to a few key points, no need to write an essay.
- Talk about the main things that concern you, don't try to analyse the bill itself.
- Illustrate with real examples and tell your story, make it personal it will have more impact.
- Say you want to speak to your submission, then when you do you can provide extra written information if you want to (get 3 bites at the cherry of making your point).
- Go to your MP (especially if they are National or ACT) and tell them you are unhappy with the undemocratic way this is being forced onto Aucklanders.
- Ask GAG for help if you need it - call the GAG submission helpline on 021 213 7779 :)
Send your submission:
By post (2 copies) to:
Clerk of the Committee
Auckland Governance Legislation Select Committee
Select Committee Office
Freepost Parliament
Wellington
Or you can submit using the online form here:
http://www.parliament.nz/en-NZ/PB/SC/MakeSub/6/3/a/49SCAGL_SCF_00DBHOH_BILL9729_1-Local-Government-Auckland-Law-Reform.htm#captcha
Good luck!
MEET LEN BROWN
GAG has invited supercity mayoral candidate LEN BROWN to meet the people of West Auckland.
Please come and join us at Kelston Community Centre on Weds 24 March at 7pm. All welcome.
Please come and join us at Kelston Community Centre on Weds 24 March at 7pm. All welcome.
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