21 June 2023
Media: Local Democracy Reporter
Topic: Review of local government recommendations
Enquiry
Reporter sought comment on the release of the final report/recommendations of the independent panel conducting the review into the future for local government in NZ [see link for more information about the panel’s work and to read the panel’s final report: Research and reports Review into the Future for Local Government]
. . . just looking for a little comment about how significant these recommendations are, what the council and acting mayor's stance is, if there are any concerns or positives to what was announced. Will paste the press release and web links below, as well as some extra q's to the comment sought.
Panelist Penny Hulse said in the media briefing the process over the last two years has involved huge imput from local councils.
"The review is set out to actually strengthen local government ... this is not an amalgamation agenda in any shape or form."
Thoughts on the above?
- What do you think of the recommendations, particularly the lowered voting age, lengthening election term to four years, funding from central government and rates from crown properties?
- What are your thoughts on the two recommended operating models that councils would choose from?
The recommendations won't be considered until after the election. Any thoughts on this?
Response
From Acting Mayor Sandra Kai Fong:
Now that we have the full report and recommendations, Council will be taking time over the next few weeks to really digest what the implications could be for Rotorua.