Central Government wants to remove regional councillors and instead have all the mayors in a region work together as one team to make regional decisions. This proposal poses serious risks for future environment-focussed decision making.
We encourage all to make a submission on the Simplifying Local Government Proposal by 20 February.
Thanks to all who engaged in conversations and input into ENM's submission through discussion at our Coffee & Advocacy event, and through emailed feedback on our drafts.
This is a link to ENM's submission - feel free to use anything that resonates with you in your own submissions
In summary:
Environment Network Manawatū is submitting against the proposal as it risks weakening environmental protection, democratic accountability, local expertise, and community trust while offering uncertain efficiency gains.
We are urging the government to pause, clearly articulate the problem it is seeking to address, and engage meaningfully with communities, local government, iwi, and environmental practitioners to design reforms that strengthen rather than hollow out environmental stewardship and local democracy.
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