It is of question why legislation to remove regional councils and to enforce conversations about amalgamation of local councils is being deadline for the time of year most of us are on holiday enjoying well-earned breaks and literally napping. Chris Bishop a local MP and RMA reformer, has, as his top priority for wanting to implement and reorganise regional government the apparent low participation and engagement of voters with the process of electing their regional council and local council. It would appear he is banking on that low involvement in the proposals to reorganise local government and has hedged his bets by making the submission time in the period when most are on holiday and soaking up the sun. I do not believe that this government has been mandated by electors to reorganise local or regional government. A small minority of voters in the local elections even wanted the opportunity to discuss any form of amalgamation. The proposal to disband our representative regional council in favour of a committee of regional Mayors and appointed central government representatives, with no Māori representation with voting rights as of right, seems typical of this coalition government. Surprising that Mayors who were elected with low participation of voters around 45%, in the local elections are now to be elevated by Chris Bishop to take on the role currently held by regional council without a mandate from the people to do so. Would seem he has a bob either way with his destain for election engagement. If you are concerned that we are being played and our legitimate right to elect our regional council representatives and oppose amalgamation of Wellington region’s local councils you are invited to a meeting on Tuesday 20^th of January 7pm to be held at the King Lion Hall, 12 King Street UH, to form a united coalition of residents to oppose amalgamation .All who oppose amalgamation are welcome to attend. Don’t let the good weather deter you storms are brewing. Facebook Like Upper Hutt Keep it local or email gintyjane@gmail.com

Teresa Homan

5279061 0223127295

A “thank you” to Teresa Homan for sending this letter to The Upper Hutt Connection.

08/01/25