Time for major review of local bodies

What is happening to our councils? Intauranga, themayor resigned after the council voted to bring inacrown manager due to ongoing conflict and dysfunction among elected members.

In Rotorua, some councillors are boycotting Long-termplan workshops after conflict between electedmembers.

Further afield in Invercargill, an independent governance review foundmayortimshadboltwas struggling to carry out significant aspects of his role – something he refutes.

Andwellington City Councilwill progresswith aninvestigation into Mayorandyfoster after a councillor lodged a formal complaint about his behaviour.

Elected councilmembers are adults elected by constituents to represent them. But based onthe above examples, some aren’t acting like it inmyopinion.

This year, I believe it’smore important than ever for councils to present aunited front. To get things done for the good of the people.

The year has brought uncertainty due to Covid-19, businesseshave closed or are struggling andmany residents and business owners aren’t going to be happyabout rates rises if they are putonthe cards.

It iswhycouncils should be in chambers working outhowbest to economically recover while ensuring people’s livelihoods remain intact.

Recovering fromcovid-19 should be at the forefront of every council’s efforts. As electedmembers, they have a duty to bring the city out the other side stronger than itwas before.

Thatmeans getting along in chambers, respecting the elected mayor and having constructive conversations at Long-termplan workshops.

Itmeans agreeing todisagree if that’s what’s needed, andworking together to find the best outcome despite thosedisagreements.

Electedmembers don’t need to agree on everything, but they should respect each other because, aswe have seen, problems can cost money.

Intauranga, a byelection for the mayor, and for a councillorwho resigned, is expected to cost between $230,000 and $240,000.

Acode of Conduct investigation into Rotorua district councillor Reynoldmacpherson cost ratepayers $59,573 inaugust.

Inmyview, this ismoney that would be better spent on infrastructure and amenities.

Whencouncil tensions and problems like the ones outlined in this editorial costmoney andaffect the ability to get things done, things need to change.

Democracywill always be important but I believe it is timely to review the structure of our council and local government systems.