Judith Collins's opinion on Tauranga City Council.
National Party leader Judith Collins wants an elected Tauranga council by the next local body elections, saying "there has to be an end to this commissioner–type stuff".
The leader of the Opposition told the Bay of Plenty Times Weekend "we believe utterly in democracy", and she would like to seeelected councillors return in 2022.
"It is hard to think this Government could organise that but I'd like to think so."
The tumultuous infighting and division at Tauranga City Council ultimately led to Local Government Minister Nanaia Mahuta appointing commissioners to replace the councillors in February this year.
Judith Collins says "there has to be an end to this commissioner-type stuff". Photo / George Novak
Collins was in Tauranga yesterday with Bay of Plenty MP Todd Muller as part of an electorate visit.
When a form of democracy eventually returns to Tauranga, Collins said it would be good to "have people there who all focus on what's right for Tauranga".
Collins said the Bay of Plenty was the fastest-growing region in the country but had massive infrastructure deficit, with lots of people who wanted to live and work here.
"The last thing we need is Tauranga being divided in its council. It needs to have some bringing together of people and their different views.
But Collins also said some businesses told her they found the commissioners were doing a better job than the previous council.
"Clearly what businesses want is to have some direction and not have the infighting that was going on."
Leader of the National Party Judith Collins and Bay of Plenty National MP Todd Muller. Photo / George Novak
When asked about the city council's proposed 20 per cent rates rises, she said she was not an expert on how the council spent rates, but people had told her some rates rises were necessary to deal with infrastructure.
"I've long been of the view that central government has a role to play in helping councils deal with some of that infrastructure, particularly around transport.
"There needs to be a coherent plan and vision for the city. It's easy to put up rates - it's harder to pay them. And people need to take that into account."
Collins warned the empty shop spaces already plaguing the CBD would only get worse if the council did not better support local businesses now facing increases to their commercial rates.
"They'll just leave. That's what's coming if the council isn't able to deliver a better experience for people who are in business and paying those rates."
