Mayor urges public to attend 'opening of books' - 18/04/2005Mayor Michael Laws said today that every Wanganui ratepayer, interested in where their rates monies goes, would benefit from attending one of Tuesday's 'Opening the Books' public meetings.
"A great deal of information that has not been publicly reported will be made available – and there will be some discussion on the financial issues confronting us as a Council and as a district. There can be no question that we have some tough calls to make in the next year or so – and I want all of Wanganui to be involved in that process," said Mr Laws.
Public meetings will be held on Tuesday at 12.15pm at the Concert Chamber of the War Memorial Hall and on Tuesday at 7.00pm at the Prince Edward Auditorium at Collegiate School.
"I think people will be a little shocked at some of the figures and facts we'll put on display. Also at some strange procedures followed by the previous Council. But that's already in the past – because we have to face facts. The Council has been living beyond its means and ratepayers have been taking the brunt."
Mr Laws said that he intended to be "completely upfront about Wanganui's finances and the limited options available. It's time for some straight-talking". |
