Fears New Zealand being “supersized”

LDC spokesperson Steve Chadwick says the release of an amalgamation proposal for the Wellington region signals the Local Government Commission’s determination to amalgamate councils across the country.

Ms Chadwick, who is also Mayor of Rotorua, says the Commission’s proposal, despite surveys showing 75% of the Wellington region’s residents are opposed to any change, is a sign of its resolve to force amalgamation everywhere.

“It’s bad news for those expecting to talk rationally with the Commission.

“It’s clear now that the Commission can only be stopped by a local referendum against its proposal.

Ms Chadwick said the Commission was ignoring many other opportunities to help regions perform better.

“There are other ways to make efficiencies and have effective local government than to force coalitions of the unwilling. The Bay of Plenty is exploring other routes. We would expect to be supported by the Commission.”

She said the Commission’s proposal for Wellington meant that half of the nation’s population would be being covered by just two councils.

“That is not local representation – it’s a recipe for alienation of communities and financial disaster.”

ENDS

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