Media release 27 August

Southland District Council has decided to progress a suggestion made by Mayor Rob Scott about potential changes to the way local government is structured in the region.

At a meeting this week, councillors received a preliminary report that estimated savings of up to $10 million a year could be achieved through a new local government structure that would reduce the four current Southland councils into two unitary authorities.

One unitary authority would be district-based, made up of the Southland and Gore districts, along with regional council functions for that area, while the other would be urban-based, including Invercargill City Council and regional council functions for the city.

This could see 20 fewer councillors, two fewer chief executives, two fewer mayors/chair, and two fewer long term plans.

Mayor Scott had previously said: “This proposal will reduce cost, improve efficiency, reduce complexity and keep the local in community decision-making. There’s also more alignment in catchments and the ability to have a one-stop shop for consenting.

“We need to lead the way and look for the right structure for Southland now, rather than wait for something to happen, which never does.”

Following discussion, a majority of councillors endorsed a recommendation to lodge a formal reorganisation investigation proposal with the Local Government Commission.

Council approved unbudgeted expenditure of up to $30,000 from its District Ops reserve to prepare further information, including carrying out community and stakeholder engagement.