Boards demand a greater say in planned cuts to library and parks

The Auckland Council is planning to cut about 50 staff from the region's libraries. Photo / File

Auckland's local politicians want a bigger say in proposed cuts to library, parks and environmental services.

Hibiscus and Bays Local Board chairwoman Julia Parfitt told Auckland Council's governing body meeting today that the council is targeting frontline services that the public love.

She was one of several local board chairs seeking "their rightful place in shared governance" between the governing body, boards and management.

Manurewa Local Board chairwoman Angela Dalton said the boards were "without teeth" and that "continuing to strip away front-facing officers without discussion is disrespectful of our local board plans and our roles as governors".

Of particular concern to the boards are a big library shake-up and cost-cutting exercise affecting 1100 full and part-time staff. More than 50 library staff could lose their jobs.

There is also concern about a reduction in the Environmental Services Department budget and cuts to the parks division.

"A change is required," said Parfitt, "it's not about a you and us, it's a we. It's shared governance."