Election season brings a flood of requests for candidates to declare their positions. One recent example was a straightforward pledge card with three commitments. I signed two — and declined one — and here’s why:
✅ Constraining Rates to Inflation
I signed this pledge because Hutt City Council will no longer be responsible for water services. With that significant cost removed, I see no justification for further large rates increases. Rates are already too high, and residents deserve relief — not more financial pressure.
✅ Demanding Transparency
I also signed the pledge for greater transparency. I’ve seen major new spending proposals added to the budget with little to no public disclosure. Ratepayers deserve to know where their money is going — and why.
❌ Committee Membership
I didn’t sign the third pledge, which opposed non-elected members on council committees. In my experience, having skilled, independent voices at the table can strengthen decision-making. Crucially, elected councillors retain the power to overturn any committee recommendations — so democratic accountability is preserved.
