Update on Hastings ratepayer meeting: Business Association fears ‘too much public interest’

The Taxpayers’ Union has been contacted by Lucinda Perry, Hastings and Havelock North City Business Association's general manager, concerned about 'too much public interest' in tonight’s emergency business rates meeting, with the Association concerned that the room may fill well before the event start at 5:30pm.

The Taxpayers' Union is urging commercial and industrial ratepayers to get there early for a seat.

Taxpayers’ Union Executive Director Jordan Williams says:

“With rates hikes of up to 85 percent on the table, it is no surprise business owners want answers and the room booked allows for barely a quarter of the Associations' members to attend."

“This is not some minor accounting change. These increases could mean lost jobs, higher costs being passed on to residents, and serious pressure on local businesses already doing it tough."

"The key question for tonight is who knew what and when. When did Council bosses know the rates proposal in the Draft Annual Plan would push up CBD rates by 27 percent and other commercial rates by 34 percent? And why were these impacts not put before ratepayers in the consultation material?"

“To ensure people do not miss out, the Taxpayers’ Union is offering to livestream the meeting so affected ratepayers can hear directly from Council."

The Business Associations are public bodies, funded by targeted rates on commercial ratepayers. The Taxpayers' Union will be attending on behalf of a number of members who are also members of the Associations.

Mr Williams is urging local ratepayers to "Get there early."