May 11th 2018
The MTU presented its submission to the Palmerston North City Council ,the Housing Advice Center followed us with their submission.The submissions were concerned about the City Council,who seem determined to introduce market rents for their their pensioner housing.There are 12 councillors who are for the for the introduce of unfair rents and 4 who are against proposed increases to market rents.
Pensioner market rents is not about redistributing the crumbs from the city council's table but restoring fairness to its elderly tenants.Taking from those who have the least to give,is just plain wrong.
There is a sizable gulf it would seem between the City Councillors and their pensioner tenants.It is vital that there is affordable housing for the weak and vulnerable who don't have a voice or a choice.How we as a city look after our pensioners is a good indication of a inclusive and caring community.The city council it would appear has become complaisant on the issue of charging market rents for those who can least afford them.Housing affordability is a serious issue for many New Zealanders,we think that the Palmerston North City Council should show leadership and empathy with their low income tenants.
Palmerston North City Council along with Housing New Zealand provide a level of security of tenure that is not available in the private sector.This security is vital to the tenants as it provides better health outcomes and less stress and they feel connected to a neighbourhood.
As they get older they don't need more worries about their accommodation costs,many only want to contribute to their community in which they reside.Housing is a necessity not a commodity.
