‘Perfect storm’: Tough decisions ahead for council under financial pressure

Nicole Mathewson Reporter from The Press

Hi neighbours, would you rather pay more rates or cut services?

City councillors are accusing Christchurch mayor Phil Mauger of paving the way for asset sales by making “dramatic” claims about the council’s dire finances.
They say cuts to core council services like libraries and swimming pools, as proposed by Mauger, were so unpalatable to the public they would never get through.

On Monday, Mauger said the council was in “shit creek financially” and cuts to libraries and swimming pools were on the cards to avoid an 18% rates increase next year.

Read the full story by reporter Tina Law here (two articles free per month, then subscription required) and share your thoughts in the comments below.

More messages from your neighbours

2 hours ago

Poll: How do you feel about outdoor murals?

The Team from Neighbourly.co.nz

🌟 Something big and colourful has arrived on Manchester Street!
A brand-new five-storey mural has just gone up — the first of many outdoor artworks set to appear around Christchurch in the lead-up to February’s climate art festival.

We want to know: How do you feel about outdoor art?

Interested in the new works that will decorate the Garden City? The Press has you covered.