Auditor opts out of rates inquiry

By CLAIRE TREVETT

The Auditor-General says it is not his place to investigate the political wisdom of the Auckland Regional Council's rate policies.

In a report released yesterday, Auditor-General Kevin Brady said it would be inappropriate for him to question the political judgment of elected members .

There was no reason to question the council's rating decisions and it had made thorough efforts to meet its legal obligations.

The report is a blow to protesters, who had called on him to investigate the fairness of the ARC's rates and aspects of its decision-making processes.

David Thornton, chairman of the Glenfield Ratepayers Association said he would be asking for the report to be reviewed.

"It's too weak for words. We'll study it in detail and then make a considered response to the Auditor-General."

The report said the Auditor-General was aware of the public outcry. "We are not insensitive to the views that many ratepayers have expressed.

"However, it is not our role to question the political judgment of elected members who have reached decisions they are entitled under statute to make.

"It is also not for us to express any opinion on the lawfulness of ARC's decisions. Only a court can do this."


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