Study on the structure of Local Government in Hawke's Bay
Collective Study on the structure of Local Government in Hawke's Bay
Recently I presented a request to your Council asking for a collective study to be done on the structure of local government in the region, and whether changes to that structure might contribute to lifting the region’s socio-economic performance. The same presentation was given to every council in the region. The presentations were given on the basis of my genuine concern for where the region finds itself around a number of indicators, and a lack of an effective structure for coordinated regional action to address our current performance.
I write today to get a more formal understanding of your Council’s position on this request. I am aware that Hastings District Council and Hawke’s Bay Regional Council have made some budget provision to fund a study. However, it is my hope that all the region’s councils could participate in a report that would cover the following:
• Review of the historical demographic,
socio-economic and environmental performance and trends for
Hawke’s Bay
• Review of the projected demographic,
socio-economic and environmental performance for Hawke’s
Bay
• Review of the projected and possible changes in
government policy settings
• Review the performance
and effectiveness of the current councils, including
financial sustainability, options for increased efficiency
and effectiveness, environmental protection and economic
development •
• Identify options for improving the
region’s response to current and projected future
socio-economic performance, including recommendations as to
whether changes are required to the local government
structure in Hawke’s Bay to maximize the region’s future
potential
•
I consider that this is an issue that
requires significant unbiased and independent scrutiny. To
try and address it via internal officer reports or reports
from others with a vested interest would, in my view, be a
significant disservice to the community and its future
generations. I seek your support to undertake an independent
study. Previous studies and current individual council
thinking would form part of the review.
I envisage the Terms of Reference, choice of consultant, budget provision and timeframes would be jointly agreed by our Chief Executives.
I would be grateful if your council could advise me of its position at your earliest convenience.
Thank you in advance for your response.
Yours sincerely
Lawrence
Yule
Mayor
ENDS