Auckland councillors baulk at proposal to hike Watercare director fees by 33%

Auckland councillors have balked at a significant proposed increase in fees for directors of Watercare, the city's water and wastewater utility. The proposal suggested a 33% hike in director remuneration, a move that has drawn sharp criticism from elected officials.

During a meeting of the Auckland Council's Appointments and Performance Review Committee, councillors were presented with a paper outlining the proposed fee increase. The timing and nature of the proposal reportedly caught many councillors by surprise. One councillor, Daniel Newman, described the proposed increase as an "appalling look," indicating strong disapproval of the move.

The specific details of the proposed new fee structure and the justification provided by council staff were not immediately available, but the initial reaction from councillors suggests a significant hurdle for the proposal to overcome. The pushback highlights concerns about public perception and the appropriateness of substantial pay increases for directors, particularly in the context of public services.

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appalling look