Auckland's proposed Climate Change dedicated rate
The mayor is proposing a dedicated rate equating to $1.18 per week for the average ratepayer to address climate change. But is it enough?
RIP John Edgar
Westie artist John Edgar has died. He was immensely influential and was directly responsible for the Waitākere Ranges Heritage Area Act being passed.
Chair's report February 2021 - Kauri sniffer dogs and community heroes
My February Chair's report where I talk about celebrating some local heroes, the Haere Mai project, local park tracks reopenings and the incredible Kauri dieback sniffing dogs.
The Mayor's budget proposal and Auckland's climate change response
Auckland Mayor Phil Goff's recently released budget proposal contains some welcome proposals to address climate change. But of itself this budget will not go near to achieving Auckland's goal of halving emissions by 50% in 2030.
Chair’s report – November 2020 - Derivatives, Open Studio and acknowledging a community hero
My November report where I comment on Council's derivatives policy, talk about the joys of Open Studio, report on Community Waitakere's year and an important speech by their chair David Kenkel, and acknowledge a community hero Ian Henderson.
Auckland's tree protection problem
Currently in Auckland far too many of our magnificent trees are not protected. Here is what I think the Government and Auckland Council should do to change this.
Auckland Council's derivatives problem
Matt Nippert in the Herald has noted that Auckland Council has entered losses of $1.4 billion on interest rate derivative contracts. Time for a new derivatives policy?
Chair's report - Asset sales and Glen Eden intensification
My September Chair's report where I talk about intensification of Glen Eden and the need to preserve open space to make intensification work.