Local Government Wants More Investment in Its Communities

A new report highlights the major concerns for Mayors and Chairs

A report, based on the findings of a recent survey, identifies what Mayors and Chairs of local authorities think are the major issues facing their communities.

Commissioned by Simpson Grierson and Local Government New Zealand (LGNZ), the report was launched during the first day of the annual LGNZ Conference in Rotorua.

The research shows a number of key findings. These include:

• investment (either external investment into a district/region, iwi investment or local business growth and investment) is seen as the top opportunity for communities

• 68% said economic growth and job creation are the biggest challenges for Mayors and Chairs

• 66% said funding and affordability issues are the major impediments Mayors and Chairs face for successful community outcomes.

Simpson Grierson partner Jonathan Salter says:

"We are delighted to have collaborated with LGNZ on this research project again in 2015. The responses are thought-provoking and deliver some clear messages from Mayors and Chairs of local authorities in New Zealand."

LGNZ Chief Executive Malcolm Alexander says:

"These themes are entirely consistent with local government’s focus on vibrant communities and economic growth across all of New Zealand. Our local and national economies and the prospects of our cities, towns and regions remain uppermost in our mayors and chairs’ minds. This report adds further weight to the new LGNZ Local Government Funding Review also released at our conference in Rotorua."

The survey was carried out in May/June 2015. Responses were received from Mayors and Chairs of 60 rural, provincial, metropolitan and regional councils throughout New Zealand, a response rate of nearly 80%.

The report is available on the Simpson Grierson website.

ENDS

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