EDS expresses concern over local government reform proposals

The Environmental Defence Society is urging caution following the announcement that local government is in for the biggest shakeup since 1989.

The government is seeking feedback on a two-stage proposal for change. The first stage would see regional councils disappear and be replaced by a Combined Territories Board. This would be made up of district mayors within a region. A regional level of local government would still exist, but its governance would no longer be separately or directly elected.

The second stage would see the Boards create a regional reorganisation plan.

EDS says overall, their view is that local government reform is needed. But shaking up regional governance while resource management reform is rolling out does create uncertainty and confusion about who does what in the new system.