Submissions have now closed on Auckland Council’s Annual Budget. Aucklanders took a very proactive interest in this year’s budget, submitting 8,058 written submissions, which was up 140 per cent on the previous year.
A large number of responses (5,626) were received in relation to the proposal to fund the $20-30 million ATEED spends on tourism promotion and major events each year, through a targeted rate on accommodation providers. Two thirds of respondents (66%) supported the proposal, while 21 per cent didn’t, 11 per cent weren’t sure, and 1 per cent selected the ‘other’ option.
We are abundantly aware that opinion is more divided within the tourism sector but we are ever mindful of the need to continue to work with Auckland Council and the wider industry to seek cost efficiencies and minimise the burden on rate payers.
Elected members are now considering the feedback on the Auckland Budget in a series of briefings and workshops ahead of final decisions being made on 1 June.