Local Government Reforms
As local MP I have a good working relationship with both the Horowhenua District Council and the Kapiti Coast District Council. It helps that I understand what’s involved, having served for eight years as a Horowhenua councillor.
It’s important that I understand local issues and how central government can help (rather than hinder) local government in what they do.
For this reason, I was pleased to see Parliament take an important step towards improving local government last week.
The Local Government Act 2002 Amendment Bill passed its first reading and is now open for public submissions. It aims to improve the transparency, accountability and financial management of local councils.
This bill says that local bodies should focus on core activities and operate within a defined fiscal envelope.
It will require councils to put out pre-election reports, using plain English and easy to understand, explaining all the major issues facing the local authority. This will include financial risks and issues like population growth and land use.
Red tape will be cut by removing unnecessary consultation and auditing which can hold things up.
The playing field will be levelled to allow the private sector to provide local services, where appropriate. Restrictions on private sector involvement in water provision will be reduced, but at the same time privatising water supplies will not be allowed.
These changes should help to inform voters and give them a clearer picture of the big issues.
Local elections are coming up later this year and I encourage you to cast your vote. Electing local councillors and a Mayor to make decisions on your behalf is an important democratic right.
I know it’s easy to criticise decisions made by councils that you may not like, but it does take courage to stand and put your name forward for election.
Local government plays an important role in our communities, but it needs good governance to help it perform.
Submissions on the bill should be received by 18 June, either online at www.parliament.govt.nz or writing to Local Government and Environment, Parliament Buildings, Wellington.