Sources Of Local Revenue Discussed

Press, Volume C, Issue 29513, 13 May 1961, Page 9

Sources Of Local Revenue Discussed

(Neio Zealand Press Association)

AUCKLAND. May 12. A five-hour meeting at the Auckland Town Hall today saw “very valuable progress" in discussions on possible new sources of local body revenue. The Mayor of Auckland (Mr D. M. Robinson), a member of the special committee of the Municipal Association’s executive appointed to discuss the question. said this after the first meeting of the committee. Other members are the Mayor of Wellington (Mr F. J. Kitts), and the Mayor of Rotorua (Mr A. M. Linton). Many proposals were studied and would be investigated further at later meetings, Mr Robinson said. “So that we can consider every aspect we have set no

deadline,” he said. “It will take at least two or three further meetings before we can start to prepare a report to the executive of the association.” He outlined principles on which the quest for revenue sources other than rates would be based. The system adopted would have to spread equitably the cost of local body services over the whole community. It would not be discriminatory against any section of the community. It would be accepted by all responsible members of the community. It would be administratively simple to understand and to operate. "Members agreed that it was a wonderful experience to sit for five hours and to get down to such detailed consideration of the proposals.” said Mr Robinson. “It was a harmonious meeting and very valuable progress was made.”