Advocacy

A request for submissions

Advocacy, probably now more than ever, is a vitally important role for Business Improvement Districts (BIDs) as, both individually and collectively, we try to influence decisions which have an effect on the economic development and prosperity of our members. We are all far too aware of the detrimental effect of COVID-19 on the economy nationally, regionally and more importantly for Business North Harbour (BNH), locally. So we must now ensure more than ever that our voice is heard, as we support our members on their journey towards economic recovery.

Since the last edition of FYI in March, BNH has advocated and made submissions on the Auckland Council Annual Budget 2020/2021 and the review of Council Controlled Organisations (CCOs), both of which are available on the BNH website. The advocacy in relation to the Council Annual Budget also included a joint presentation with five other BIDs to the council’s finance and performance committee and the mayor, at which we highlighted the economic challenges being faced by our businesses and property owners. We also outlined the likely significant impacts of COVID-19 as we headed into the various lockdown levels. We asked Council to give particular consideration to the financial implications for businesses as they set business rates and differentials, and further asked for deferments, payment holidays or other methods of relief/ support to be considered.

BNH has already shared with members via our website and EDM that due to the current unprecedented circumstances, Aucklanders are being asked to have their say on Auckland Council’s proposed “emergency budget”, which is its response to the financial impacts of COVID-19. The new round of consultation opened on 29th May and submissions must be received by 19th June, with adoption by the council’s governing body in late July 2020. The emergency budget consultation is in addition to consultation carried out in March on the Annual Budget 2020/2021 noted above. Now,

...we must now ensure more than ever that our voice is heard, as we support our members on their journey towards economic recovery.

as we did then, BNH would encourage all our members to provide their feedback individually to ensure that your views are submitted for consideration. Just another gentle reminder not to leave it to others, as apathy and influence do not go hand in glove.

Sustainability and the implications for businesses, particularly SMEs, has also seen BNH proactively advocating to Council regarding the need to support businesses to better understand their role, what sustainability means for them and how they can become more sustainable. In relation to the same topic, BNH also contributed to the development of a Sustainable Business Network (SBN) climate report, aimed at providing some guidance and support for SMEs to accelerate climate action, which is available through SBN.

Finally, a quick update on our Bridge to the Future (BTTF) strategy which looks at taking a collaborative approach with a range of key stakeholders to ensure that the development of the North Shore, not just our Business Improvement District, is shaped in a planned and integrated manner. The project continues to gain support, with our local boards and Infrastructure NZ taking a keen interest and, despite some delays due to the lockdown, we hope to be in a position to make an informed decision as to the ongoing feasibility of the initiative within the next few months.

BNH looks forward to some positive outcomes for our members as we continue to dedicate time and resource to influencing important issues.

External links to read more:

businessnh.org.nz/formal-submissions/ Bridge to the Future: businessnh.org.nz/ agm-reports/

Kevin O’Leary General Manger, Business North Harbour