Rates revolt spreading elsewhere

Press, 25 July 1985, Page 5

Rates revolt spreading elsewhere

The rates revolt that began in Merivale looks likely to spread elsewhere in Christchurch. Representatives of the Sumner, Redcliffs, Mount Pleasant, and. Clifton neighbourhood committees agreed at a meeting on Monday evening to form a joint Ratepayers' Action Group. Although these areas will not receive rate demands until August 1, it is expected that the increases will be higher than the average. The president of the Mount Pleasant Ratepayers' Association, Mr Donald Walker, who was at the meeting, said yesterday that the Merivale experience has pointed the way for their own action. The joint group hopes to set up a petition in the area

east of the Ferrymead bridge, the petition similar to one taken in Merivale, seeking support from residents for an approach to the Christchurch City Council to investigate a more equitable system of levying rates, he said. It is hoped that the eastern petition will be ready next week, as people receive their rate notices. The joint action group hoped to work with the Merivale Precinct Society for mutual support and advice, Mr Walker said. Meanwhile, the Merivale society will hold another public meeting on August 4, to report on its progress, and further courses of action. The meeting will be held at the Heaton Intermediate School hall at 2 p.m.