30 Jun 2021

Invercargill City Council to face progress review next week

6:44 pm on 30 June 2021

The Invercargill City Council will start its six-month progress review next week after significant governance issues.

Clock tower at Invercargill, New Zealand

Invercargill (file image). Photo: 123RF

Last year, the Thomson Report found a leadership void at the council, with mayor Sir Tim Shadbolt increasingly unable to carry out his duties.

The council's chief executive said progress has been made since, although deputy mayor Nobby Clark had raised concerns about Sir Tim's leadership.

Today, the council gave the review a green light with a budget of up to $18,000 plus disbursements.

It will be undertaken by Richard Thomson, who wrote the initial report on the council.

The review will look at what the council has done to address governance issues and whether it has met five outcomes set out by the report.

The outcomes include:

  • The elected council is able to function as a governing body.
  • The Mayor, Deputy Mayor, Committee Chairs and Deputy Chairs are able to provide leadership to other elected members and the council organisation.
  • Elected council members have the understanding required to carry out their local governance role.
  • Elected council members have the capacity and knowledge to make decisions effectively.
  • Elected council members are able to work effectively with the council's chief executive and executive leadership team.
  • A lasting legacy for future councils will be provided.
  • A reputation is established as a high performing council.

The review is expected to be completed in time to be considered by the council at its 27 July meeting.

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