Bill Reminds Us Why We Are Here

Mayor Bob Harvey today supported the Government’s intention to enact the Local Government Bill.

“This Bill is a really important reform and clearly reminds us why we are here and what local government is for” said Mr Harvey.

“The current Act provides a very long list of things that Councils are ‘allowed’ to do. But it is not at all clear why we would do them. The new Bill provides a very clear purpose for local government – and with it comes a very clear responsibility to our community.”

“By saying that Councils exist to promote the well-being of their residents the Bill is clearly telling us to put our people and our community first.”

“In Waitakere City, the Eco City, we have long recognised the importance of being sustainable and of working for the sustainable development of Waitakere City. For the last decade involvement and inclusion have been key parts of our undoubted success.”

“The Local Government Bill will not change what we do – but it will constantly remind us that we do it for our people. The key test that we will have to apply to everything that we do is – will our people, our community, be better off – both tomorrow and in the future.”

“Should we fear this? Should we be concerned that Councils will run amuck? No. This is about being adult, it’s about being grown up, it’s about being sensible,” Mr Harvey said. “The Bill is a straightforward approach to defining the role that Councils will play. I support the legislation and encourage the Government to proceed with quickly,” said Mr Harvey.

© Scoop Media