Hawke’s Bay poll date set

A date of 15 September 2015 has been set for a poll on the Local Government Commission’s Final Proposal for amalgamation of local government in Hawke’s Bay. The poll will be conducted by postal vote.

This follows the validation last week, by electoral officer Warwick Lampp, of a poll petition presented to the Commission by A Better Hawke’s Bay trust.

“The poll allows Hawke’s Bay people to have the final say on the best form of local government for them,’’ said Commission chief executive Sandra Preston. “We encourage electors in the region to familiarise themselves with the Commission’s proposal so whichever way they vote they are making an informed decision.’’

Copies of the Final Proposal are available through local council offices and can be viewed on the Commission’s website.

The Commission has appointed Mr Lampp as electoral officer to conduct the September poll. The selected date allows for statutory steps such as preparation of the electoral roll, delivery of voting documents to electors, and a three-week postal voting period leading up to 15 September.

If 50 per cent or more of voters reject the proposal, the process comes to an end. If more than 50 per cent vote in favour of it, a transition body comprising two councillors from each council and an independent chair will be established to prepare for the election of the new council in October 2016.

ENDS

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