Environment Southland welcomes LGC investigation
Environment Southland is welcoming the Local Government Commission’s (LGC) investigation into local council governance in Southland.
“Any proposals that benefit Southlanders are worth exploring,” Environment Southland Chairman Nicol Horrell said.
The Local Government Commission announced today that it will investigate the proposal initially made by the Southland District Council, as well as other options. The aim is to improve democratic local decision-making, increase efficiency and effectiveness, and strengthen regional collaboration and representation.
“We are pleased that the LGC has taken on our suggestion of exploring other possible options for governance, including having one unitary council for the region,” explained Chairman Horrell.
“It’s important that we find the best outcome for the region and not be tied into a single approach at this stage.”
In considering whether to investigate, the commission consulted with Gore District Council, Invercargill City Council, Southland District Council and Environment Southland, as well as Te Ao Mārama, on behalf of Ngāi Tahu ki Murihiku.
Environment Southland is looking forward to working with the Commission and ensuring the voices of Southlanders are heard during the process.
The LGC statement has reinforced that each council and Ngāi Tahu ki Murihiku will be able to provide input into how the investigation runs. We’ll be advocating for this to be a robust, considered and in-depth process,” Chairman Horrell added.
