Michael Barnett New Chair Of Local Government Forum

Media Release

26 August 2011

Michael Barnett New Chair Of Local Government Forum

Michael Barnett is the new Chair of the Local Government Forum, a group of major business organisations with an interest in promoting efficient and effective local government.

Mr. Barnett is Chief Executive of Auckland Regional Chamber of Commerce and a Director of the New Zealand Chambers of Commerce and Industry.

“The members of the Local Government Forum are significant representatives of ratepayers – businesses and farmers – and as such we have a keen interest in policies affecting local government.” said Mr. Barnett.

“Local government is a vital part of the economic and social landscape and I see the Forum’s role as promoting policies that will maximise the sector’s contribution to New Zealanders’ wellbeing.

“The best way for local government to contribute to maximising wellbeing is for it do its core activities well and keep its spending and rates under control.

“There are many big issues on the radar for local government, including debates about its future structure, roles, and funding which will all be considered in the Minister of Local Government’s Smarter Government, Stronger Communities Review.

“We strongly support the Minister’s review and we are looking forward to continuing to have input into it”, said Mr. Barnett.

Mr. Barnett replaces Charles Finny who stepped down last year.

ends

© Scoop Media