Kiwis to get the final vote on amalgamation

New Zealanders will get the right to have a final say on any proposed local body amalgamations, says Labour’s local government spokesperson Su’a William Sio releasing Labour’s Local Government policy today.

“While Labour does not oppose amalgamations as such, we do not adhere to the ‘one size fits all’ approach.

“Our plan for a final say referendum on amalgamation is to restore democracy to local government and implement a real partnership with central government. The Government does not have a coherent strategy for local government reform.

“Labour will also address the size of local authority wards including a councillor to voter ratio. We will also restore the right of Kiwi communities to be fully consulted before services are contracted out or privatised.

“We are also committed to restoring the four well-beings of Local Government that were removed by National. They will allow New Zealanders to participate in local government and at last have a real say.

“Labour’s vision for local government is that it will not only be accountable to local communities but also affordable for its residents and ratepayers.”

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