8 December 2015 Hon Paula Bennett Minister of Local Government Parliament Buildings, Wellington Dear Minister In recent times | have had a number of constituents write to me to complain about the behaviour of window washers who operate within the bounds of the Epsom electorate, although the problem is universal throughout Auckland. Uhave had reports of threatening and aggressive behaviour, breaking into vehicles and some people have been allegedly run over. ‘The Council have informed me that they have staff proactively deployed to observe and record offending, and take enforcement action against window washers via prosecution in the District Court. Since December 2014, 33 window washers have been prosecuted for a total of 55 offences. A further 13 offenders have recently had their files approved for prosecution. | am told that prosecution files are currently being prepared on approximately 30 more individuals. Fines and costs typically range between $200 - $400. Compliance activities are undertaken in close association with the New Zealand Police with assistance provided to identify individuals observed and undertake prosecution. Recent targeting of key offenders has resulted in some being prosecuted for multiple offences and being fined up to $800. David Seymour, Leader, ACT New Zealand ‘Member of Parliament for Epsom Parliament Buildings, Wellington 6160, New Zealand Phone: 04 817 9905, mall: david sevmoure@ garliament govt.nz ‘www.act.org.nz‘Along with the Council, | agree that enforcement via the District Court is a slow process for dealing with high volume low level offending, such as window washing in breach of Bylaws. | understand that Auckland Council is seeking new regulations from Government to be made under the Local Government Act, via LGNZ, to enable an infringement notice regime to be introduced for Bylaw offences. An infringement notice regime also has the support of the New Zealand Police. | believe that an infringement notice regime for window washers would enable more effective policing of window washers at intersections. ‘As the MP for Epsom | strongly support Auckland Council's pursuit of this new enforcement tool. Yours sincerely David Seymour Member of Parliament for Epsom