Representation changes in lead-up to local government election

The Local Government Commission has determined that there will be changes to how Lower Hutt residents are represented by Hutt City Council.

The decision follows a recent Commission hearing after two submitters appealed Council’s decision, made in October last year, not to change the way residents are represented by Council. Council’s decision followed a routine six-yearly review of representation in the city. The Commission determined that: • One councillor will represent each of the city’s six wards • Six councillors will be elected at large, or by the whole city • The Eastbourne, Wainuiomata and Petone community boards will each include one member appointed by Council.

Previously, two councillors represented each of the six wards, with only the Mayor elected at large, and two councillors sat on each of the community boards.

Local government elections are in October this year and the changes from the Local Government Commission will be made prior to these.

Hutt City Council Chief Executive Tony Stallinger said that Council accepts the Commission’s decision.

“There was robust debate at Council about whether to change the way councillors are elected. Council is a democracy and a majority of Council supported the option to stay with the status quo, which was also favoured during public consultation.

“However the Local Government Commission has now made their determination and Council accepts this decision. Officers will now start preparing for elections in October under the new system.”

ENDS

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