Unions representing staff at the New Plymouth District Council say a proposed cap on rates will result in services being cut and quality jobs in the region being lost.
The council has decided to include a 3 percent cap on rates increases in its draft long term plan.
The cap could mean the zoo and some swimming pools and libraries need to be closed.
The Public Service Association said cutting services would not just hurt the staff, but the community as a whole.
The Engineering, Printing and Manufacturing Union has encouraged people to speak up for the public services while they have the chance.
The New Plymouth district’s long-term plan goes out for public consultation in late March.