SWDC well-positioned amid Government update on local reform

South Waikato District Council will continue to progress with conversations involving neighbouring councils, following the Government's announcement of a three-month window in which councils can submit proposals to simplify and strengthen local government in the regions.

Anticipating the proposed changes were on the horizon, SWDC has for several months been proactively engaging, both through the Waikato Mayoral Forum and independently, with other councils to discuss potential options.

Mayor Gary Petley was also a signatory on the joint letter which went to Local Government Minister Simon Watts on behalf of the Waikato Mayoral Forum last month, expressing a collective desire to work together, and seeking Government support to do so.

“We knew if we weren’t at the table from the outset then we’d risk losing control of our own destiny. We are determined to ensure that is not the case,” Petley said.

“Right now we are open-minded as to what the options of the future might be, but what is not negotiable for us is that those options must be beneficial to the South Waikato community.

“Just because we are small, that doesn’t mean our voice doesn’t count. It’s our role as community leaders to ensure that our District’s interests are considered, no matter what option might be adopted.

“That is leadership at District level.”