In the fifth of a summer series on Wairarapa leaders' views on the government's proposed local council reforms, Carterton mayor Steve Cretney shares his perspectives.
Carterton mayor Steve Cretney said balancing affordability with retaining service levels was key when considering the government's rates capping proposals. Photo: LDR/SUPPLIED
The government's recently proposed council shake-up has been called the most wide-ranging in a generation.
Changes include scrapping regional councils, introducing a rates cap of between 2 and 4 percent, and a simplification of planning legislation.
Cretney said it was hard to comment without having full details of how the proposals would work together.
"What I can say is that Carterton District Council will always focus on what's best for our residents," he said.
"We're already working hard on Local Water Done Well, and any changes will need to complement that work. Community feedback will be critical to ensure these reforms reflect local needs."
Cretney thought scrapping regional councils could present some opportunities, if skills were retained.
"There is an opportunity to improve efficiencies and reduce duplication in this space and a well-designed transition could mean clearer accountability, faster decision-making, and more consistent environmental standards across the region.
"The key will be ensuring that local knowledge and specialist skills are retained within any new structure so that outcomes are not compromised while processes become more efficient."
Referring to the rates capping proposals, he said balancing affordability with retaining service levels was key.
"Affordability is important, especially for people on fixed incomes.
"However, a cap could limit councils' ability to maintain essential services and infrastructure. Until we see the full detail, it's hard to know how this will balance out. Our focus will be on ensuring Carterton can continue to deliver what our community needs."
He was committed to supporting council staff.
"Reforms bring change and that can affect workloads. Without knowing the specifics, it's difficult to say, but we will support our staff so they can keep delivering for our community."
He encouraged the community to provide feedback on the proposals.
"I encourage everyone to have their say. These proposals could shape local government for years to come, so community voices matter. Read the information carefully, think about what's important for Carterton and the wider Wairarapa, and make a submission.
"Change is always challenging, but it can also bring opportunities, and we're ready to have these conversations. Our residents will remain at the centre of our decision-making, and we'll advocate for outcomes that strengthen our community."
Consultation on the rates capping and regional council proposals is open until next month, with details available on the Department of Internal Affairs website.
The government has sent its legislation to replace the Resource Management Act to the Environment Select Committee. The Planning Bill and Natural Environment Bill passed their first readings last month.
The views of Wairarapa MP Mike Butterick, Labour list MP Kieran McAnulty, Wairarapa-based Green MP, Celia Wade-Brown, and South Wairarapa mayor Dame Fran Wilde on the proposed changes have already appeared in the series.
LDR is local body journalism co-funded by RNZ and NZ On Air.
