95bFM Auckland Council annual budget proposal receives record number of submissions
13 March, 2023
Interview by Simon Wraight, adapted David Liwei Shi
Manukau Ward councillor Lotu Fuli says there was strong opposition to reduced funding for arts and culture programmes and events across Tāmaki Makaurau. Photo: Canva.
The Auckland Council has received a record number of submissions on its 2023/2024 annual budget.
Manukau Ward councillor Lotu Fuli told Simon Wraight on 95bFM’s The Wire that the council is processing feedback from at least 35,000 people and organisations.
“We have seen a much bigger interest in this budget compared to, say, the Covid budget.”
Fuli said the high number of submissions was a result of strong opposition to reduced funding for arts and culture programmes and events across Tāmaki Makaurau.
The draft budget proposed sweeping cuts to most services the council provides, including buses, parks, libraries, and the Citizens Advice Bureau.
“The Covid budget had a $1 billion dollar hole to fill, and the biggest difference is what we are proposing to do to fill that hole.”
Lotu said cultural events like Polyfest in Manukau rely on funding from local boards.
“Without that funding, a lot of groups in South Auckland will fold.”
The council will announce its final budget by 29 June 2023.
