NZers views on local government
LGNZ have had Colmar Brunton do a large survey of NZ residents and businesses on local government. The initial results aren’t complimentary but it is a smart move by LGNZ to do such research, because it provides a benchmark to try and improve against for their member governments.
The survey is here. Some extracts:
- Performance rated 28/100
- Local leadership rated 26/100
- Communication and interaction rated 32/100
The bottom three areas for the public are:
- Trust to make good spending decisions
- Value for rate dollars spent
- Managing finances
Councils need to learn to live within their means. Rates should stay constant, except for inflation and population. Annual increase of 3% to 10% are antagonizing the public.
The five most important services for the public are:
- Roads 45%
- Town facilities and amenities 42%
- Water supply 30%
- Rubbish/recycling 26%
- Sewerage/wastewater 18%
So Councils should focus on the basics above, and do them well.
Again a very good initiative by LGNZ doing this research, Hopefully Councils will take it into account.