Changes mark way forward for Council

Recommended changes in the wake of the Audit New Zealand report into the city’s V8s have been unanimously supported by Hamilton City Council, and mark a new path forward for the organisation.

At Council’s Extraordinary Meeting today, Chief Executive Barry Harris tabled his response to the Audit New Zealand report, with 27 recommendations which will ensure Councillors are provided with timely and accurate information, and strengthen reporting mechanisms within the organisation.

Other adopted changes include development of a Business Case Policy, staff responsibility to deliver objective, professional and clear information to elected members, and periodic reporting of major projects.

Ms Hardaker, who will report to the Minister of Local Government on Council’s actions to rectify issues identified by Audit New Zealand, will also chair a newly-formed working group tasked with monitoring the implementation of further governance changes and of Mr Harris’ recommendations. Councillors Gordon Chesterman, Dave Macpherson, Martin Gallagher and Margaret Forsyth will join Ms Hardaker on the working group.

Identifying a failure in the democratic and governance process around the V8s, Ms Hardaker said it was essential Council regained the confidence of the Hamilton community and ratepayers following the release of the report.

Ms Hardaker said: “These changes are crucial and in the best interests of the city. We need to move forward, with Councillors and staff presenting a united front.”

Mr Harris will also provide Council with a legal opinion on any breach of statutory obligations by current or former employees relating to the V8s.