Today I read an article by Georgina Campbell that really confused me.
The Wellington City Council is forecasting its deficit to increase to $92.6 million.
Why?
They're blaming dwindling revenue from car parks, and the weather.
Wow, it's not often a marketing manager is annoyed when their campaign works.
The council's most recent quarterly report from January to March estimated a total deficit of $92.6 million, up from $79 million originally forecast.
At the time of the quarterly report, parking revenues were down $5.6 million.
That's apparently because people were adopting working from home as the new normal.
Are you kidding me?
Maybe it's because we've been persuaded into not driving, parking, and sadly shopping in town.
Has anyone thought of that?
Apparently car park occupancy hasn't fully bounced back after the COVID-19 pandemic, and is sitting about 54 per cent, falling short of the 80 per cent target.
Does that really surprise anybody?
All we ever hear is keep your car out of town, get on your bike, start cycling.
So we get all these cycleways, then suddenly we have lost money that normally goes into parking meters, and we ask why?
The report said the council's broader agenda of reducing reliance on cars would also be affecting the reduced parking revenues.
Whoever figured that one out deserves some big bucks.
I know sarcasm is the lowest form of wit, but it's hard not to be sarcastic when you read this.
Our very own council is saying fewer cars are coming in into town and parking, and we've got a cash flow problem because of it.
How does it make you feel when you know that your rates are going to go up again?
And trust me on one thing, it's going to get worse before it gets better.
Just imagine when they start the Let's Get Wellington Moving construction through the middle of the city.
How many people are going to be driving into town to go shopping when everything is closed?
Your vote, your people, running this once fantastic city.
Hard not to be sarcastic right now.
LISTEN ABOVE
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Popular Podcasts
Are You A Charlotte?
In 1997, actress Kristin Davis’ life was forever changed when she took on the role of Charlotte York in Sex and the City. As we watched Carrie, Samantha, Miranda and Charlotte navigate relationships in NYC, the show helped push once unacceptable conversation topics out of the shadows and altered the narrative around women and sex. We all saw ourselves in them as they searched for fulfillment in life, sex and friendships. Now, Kristin Davis wants to connect with you, the fans, and share untold stories and all the behind the scenes. Together, with Kristin and special guests, what will begin with Sex and the City will evolve into talks about themes that are still so relevant today. "Are you a Charlotte?" is much more than just rewatching this beloved show, it brings the past and the present together as we talk with heart, humor and of course some optimism.
On Purpose with Jay Shetty
I’m Jay Shetty host of On Purpose the worlds #1 Mental Health podcast and I’m so grateful you found us. I started this podcast 5 years ago to invite you into conversations and workshops that are designed to help make you happier, healthier and more healed. I believe that when you (yes you) feel seen, heard and understood you’re able to deal with relationship struggles, work challenges and life’s ups and downs with more ease and grace. I interview experts, celebrities, thought leaders and athletes so that we can grow our mindset, build better habits and uncover a side of them we’ve never seen before. New episodes every Monday and Friday. Your support means the world to me and I don’t take it for granted — click the follow button and leave a review to help us spread the love with On Purpose. I can’t wait for you to listen to your first or 500th episode!
Dateline NBC
Current and classic episodes, featuring compelling true-crime mysteries, powerful documentaries and in-depth investigations. Follow now to get the latest episodes of Dateline NBC completely free, or subscribe to Dateline Premium for ad-free listening and exclusive bonus content: DatelinePremium.com