SURVEY: Ratepayers back calls for Crown Observer in Auckland

Auckland Ratepayers appear to back calls by senior councillors for the Minister of Local Government to appoint a Crown Observer to monitor the dysfunction at Auckland Council.

An overnight survey of 825 Auckland ratepayers found that 95 percent believe the Government should appoint a Crown Observer.

Ratepayers’ Alliance spokesman Josh Van Veen said:

"Ratepayers clearly believe that councillors must be able to carry out their duties without fear of abuse or retaliation."

"Given that the Mayor isn’t taking this seriously and continues to attack councillors who disagree with him, the Government must step in."

"It’s time for the Minister of Local Government to step in and appoint a Crown Observer to restore confidence in Auckland Council."