media release 14 December 2009
from David Thornton

Recall for Super Mayor?

The controversy surrounding Mayor Andrew Williams has prompted questions as to the ability to remove a mayor from office – or remove any elected member from office.

There are only two reasons in the Local Government Act for disqualification from office – if an elected member, while in office, commits an offence which carries a penalty of two years or more imprisonment, or ceases to be eligible to be on an electoral roll.

In the some states of the US an elected member can be recalled from office if a majority in a referendum so decide.

A referendum must be called following a petition demanding a referendum and carrying the requiste number of signatures – typically 5% of registered voters.

In the light of the public reaction to Mayor William’s antics perhaps we should include a recall provision for the position of Super Mayor of the New Auckland.

ENDS

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