By-election process to be discussed

Published on 07 October 2014

7 October 2015

On Thursday, October 9, the Strategy and Policy Committee will consider supporting a remit to Local Government New Zealand (LGNZ) about changing the by-election process.

Strategy and Policy Committee Chair, Cr Philippa Baker-Hogan, says there is some concern from the community about the costs incurred when by-elections are held and “the last by-election was no exception.”

“There has been comment from the community and some councillors around the cost of holding a by-election, prompted by the resignation of a councillor relatively close to the previous election.

“Rather than spend up to $50,000 of ratepayer money so soon after the triennial election process, I am seeking support from the Council for a remit to LGNZ at their AGM in 2015.

The remit would allow the highest losing candidate from the previous election to fill the seat, if an elected member left the Council within 12 months of an election," says Cr Baker-Hogan.

A remit to LGNZ must be relevant to all local government organisations, not just selected councils.

Remits are considered by LGNZ at its Annual General Meeting in July each year and if successful they are recommended to the Minister of Local Government.