Chamber supports “Better Local Government” reforms
The Hawke’s Bay Chamber of Commerce has announced its support for the “Better Local Government” reforms, announced by
Prime Minister John Key and the Minister for Local Government Dr. Nick Smith, earlier this week.
Chamber Vice President Katja Williams said local government policies and decisions had a major impact on business
success and expansion.
“It is important that local government operate in a consistent and efficient manner.”
“High rates, business targeted rates, the inconsistent application of development contributions, and differing
compliance regimes, bylaws and policies, in different parts of Hawke's Bay have a negative impact on business and
successful business development.”
Ms Williams said the proposal to limit growth in council spending to inflation and population growth, with exceptions
for extraordinary matters, and to limit debt levels was an important step, because those cost increases also fell on
business.
“This is a matter that the Chamber has regularly advocated to the councils”.
She said the proposal to streamline council reorganisation procedures was “well-conceived”, given that the current
reorganisation process is overly complex and lengthy.
“In light of this strong signal from central government, the proposed "regional study" to be undertaken by our local
councils clearly needs to include a review of our local government structure, to see if there is a better solution for
Hawke's Bay.”
Ms Williams said it was the Chamber’s view that the terms of reference for the regional study were “far too vague” and
needed to be more specific, in order to give proper weight to the critical matter.
“The Chamber has been a long-time advocate for local council reorganisation and there is a lot of support in the
community to review local governance.”
Ends