hawkesbaycouncilwatch

An Aussie in charge.
Not necessarily a bad thing.It is hopefully a good move to have a fresh face writing the editorials of HB Today.
The new editor will not be tainted by the partisan stance of others that have been involved in covering local activities and an outsiders view will be welcome.
All we ask for is a balanced coverage of issues and a presentation of facts,not distortions of facts.
It will be a tough job with the internet so prominent in our lives today.

Local Authorities will be watching with interest as the new Government settles in.
Councils around NZ have been getting carried away with their role since the gifting of a power of general competence was endowed upon them by the Labour Govt.
The new National Government will most likely give things a shake up although I hope someone like Nick Smith is not allowed to follow through on some of his personal dislikes.It is one reason that Nick Smith should not have the portfolio.We shall see.
If there are changes to the RMA tghis will have a big impact on the way councils operate and there will be some soul searching already with an indication that consents have to be dealt with in 90 days.
This is better than using the act for repeated requests for further information that costs applicants a fortune and prevents officers from doing what they should do –make a decision.
At present it is more like playing a game.