Eckhoff Opposes Waterfront HQ

Otago Regional Councillor, Gerrard Eckhoff, has an excellent article in the ODT, opposing the building of of the new Regional Council HQ on the waterfront.
He challenges the claim the money will not increase rates:

The proposed office block on the harbour basin is to be funded from reserves.
While the proponents of the new harbour site building argue it will not affect rates, there is an opportunity cost to the use of ratepayer reserves, which can be spent, saved or used in many ways.
The ORC effectively had a choice to fund the stadium ($37.5 million) or the proposed new building ($34 million) out of reserves.
Either way, the run-down in reserves will no doubt be rebuilt over time, so the rate take will need to continue at the current levels.

And comments on the Waterfront weather:

Some believe the enhanced amenity value to Dunedin's public will offset the significant cost in building on such a site.
Comparisons have also been made with the Auckland Viaduct Basin, which super-yachts and the America's Cup (briefly) call home; and where a thriving café culture exists in the almost subtropical climate.
Dunedin has no such opportunity, given the east wind off the harbour makes itself felt most days.

I am can comment on the Waterfront climate as much as anybody as I have worked in the Port Otago Building for the last ten years, cycling to and from St Clair most days. The micro-climate of the Waterfront is windy and cold. I often have to put my jacket on when I leave work, but take it off again when I reach St Clair because I am hot. The cafe scene at St Clair has thrived with crowds regularly enjoying the outdoor tables. But you rarely see people outside at the Customhouse.
The Queenstown Lakes District Council has the right idea, shelving their plans for a $30 million HQ.