Because Western Bay District Council meetings are not reported, it is hard for individual councillors like myself to test their ideas publically, and get reaction, hence this letter. Thanks to The Weekend Sun.
When government eased the rules for local bodies 10 years ago, Council's grew substantially, increased staff, charged more, rates rocketed and rules and regulations and planning restrictions increased. Government now recognises this, and is planning changes, but we must now try to control the monster in our midst.
We read locally that Tauranga city is part way through a substantial restructuring, and I applaud this, and see this as the only way forward for our council.
We would need to overcome old theories and attitudes and patch protection, and throw out some entrenched processes and unpopular and restricting planning functions of council, but it is possible. I believe it would give a huge impetus to our district's economy, and eventually relief to our long suffering ratepayers. Thames Coromandel council has gone through a substantial restricting with dramatic results.
One example is a staffing review, which will save them $1-7 million ever year for the next 10 years. Our staff in 2002 was 108. Even after the world downturn it increased, till it now totals 170 (May 2012). I have told council I believe we could do many things to help hold rates and with this in mind voted for a cap of zero on land rate rises (except for inflation) but was soundly outvoted.
Change is now long overdue. Katikati and Te Puke are now looking to form groups for the purpose of working alongside council in a constructive way, but with a strong desire for some long overdue philosophical and planning and attitude changes.
As an urban home owner myself, my rates look to be going up over 16%, so I am as aware as anyone for the need for council restraint. Freeing up growth is in my opinion the way forward, but this is currently suppressed by the current regime.
Watch this space.

Norm Mayo, Katikati Ward Councillor
Western Bay District Council.