Marlborough District Councillors are open to discussions with neighbouring councils as part of the Government's Simplifying Local Government reform programme.
The Government's voluntary ‘Head Start’ initiative, announced on 5 May, provides councils with an opportunity to explore locally-led options for future local government structures. Outline proposals must be submitted to the Government by 9 August, with successful proposals progressing to a more detailed design phase.
Kaikōura District Councillors yesterday passed resolutions to formally authorise their CEO to progress discussions with neighbouring Councils including Hurunui, Waimakariri and Marlborough District Council regarding potential options for a Head Start proposal.
Mayor Taylor advised Councillors at today’s full Council meeting that she had already received an email from the Mayor of Kaikōura asking that Marlborough undertake initial discussions.
“This will take place at the first opportunity. It is the start of a conversation and they will be very exploratory in nature. Any decision to support or participate in a future proposal would be subject to further analysis, statutory decision-making requirements and explicit Council approval,” she said.
At its meeting, Council authorised Mayor Nadine Taylor, Deputy Mayor David Croad and Chief Executive John Boswell to engage in conversations with neighbouring councils regarding potential involvement in the Government initiative.
Mayor Nadine Taylor said the proposed discussions were about ensuring Marlborough was ‘open to opportunity’ as the Government's reform programme develops.
"The Government has clearly signalled its intention to reform local government structures. Marlborough is already a unitary authority and is not required to participate in the Head Start process.
“However, it is important that we understand what neighbouring councils are considering to ensure Marlborough's interests are well represented. Any discussions will be exploratory and would not commit Marlborough to any future amalgamation, governance change or reorganisation proposal.
“Early engagement will allow us to better understand emerging options, identify risks and opportunities, and maintain strategic flexibility as the reform programme evolves,” Mayor Taylor said.
The recommended approach allows Marlborough to gather information and participate in regional conversations without making any binding commitments.
Council is expected to receive an update in mid-July outlining the outcome of discussions and any recommended next steps. No formal commitments, financial obligations or positions will be made without community engagement and further Council approval.
Further information is available on Council's website.
