Kāpiti Coast District Council is considering its options following the Government’s decision to fast-track plans to simplify local government.
Ministers on Tuesday gave councils an ultimatum: come up with plans within three months or the government will do it for you.
Kāpiti Council is in a relatively strong position with good quality water infrastructure and their financial rating is sound. By contrast, much of the region has many $billions required to fix failing infrastructure and the prospect of high rates well into the future.
Mayor Janet Holborow says the Council’s focus is on building resilience and keeping services affordable, while ensuring the Kāpiti Coast community has a strong voice in local decision-making.
“We’ve been working on how the removal of Regional Councils would affect us and understanding what different alternative options might mean for Kāpiti,” says Mayor Holborow.
“This includes having discussions with our neighbours in Horowhenua and attending the Wellington regional working group as an observer. We have made no commitment to join any amalgamation at this point.
“Any change needs to stack up for our community. We need to understand the true costs of delivering regional services and the long-term impacts before any decisions are made,” Mayor Holborow says.
“We’ll be talking with our community about the options available to Kāpiti before we make any decisions.
“Kāpiti is in a strong position, with sound finances and quality infrastructure. This gives us flexibility and we’re committed to making sure we think of the future as we have these conversations.”