We are facing a global pandemic with New Zealand currently in lockdown due to COVID-19. At this time of uncertainty, the Christchurch City Council must balance the requirement of exercising fiscal responsibility with the need to continue to invest in key infrastructure projects.
Given the current environment of unprecedented uncertainty, we recommend delaying rates increases, focusing on core services, working with Central Government and regional councils on projects that could stimulate economic activity in different regions. We also recommend: continuing to support ChristchurchNZ in attracting more business, activity and people to the region; taking on more debt; and leveraging the Government’s depreciation policy to support ratepayers and the property sector.
These actions are necessary to assist all ratepayers during the economic impact of COVID-19, as they have a big role to play in lifting our country out of recession during these uncertain times.