Rural Retreats

Abstract

In many respects it is easy to understand what attracts people to secluded rural areas - peace, serenity, 'being one with nature', etc. Without doubt, their ideals can be envied by many of us lesser mortals. However, in many cases, whilst these appear to be the initial desires of such new settlers, the novelty seemingly wears off, rather rapidly in many cases. Services (and furthermore, improvement to services) are expected, demanded and regarded as a 'God given right'. In appreciating the initial aspirations of such people one fails to reconcile their sincerity when such pressures are placed on Councils. Nevertheless, we are all entitled to have a change in direction at some time, one concedes. However, difficulties arise when Councils allocate forward priorities annually and for longer periods. Such intense areas of pressure force Councils to the situation of reviewing priorities, which often is inequitable - 'the squeaky door syndrome', 'he who yells the loudest' attracts attention, etc. Meanwhile, other more established ratepayers who have been patiently awaiting services run the risk of being moved further down the queue. And so it goes, increasing pressures on local authorities for more and more services and local authorities with less and less dollars (in real terms) to go around.