South Wairarapa DC unveils significant changes

The South Wairarapa District Council today unveiled significant proposed changes to its structure and processes – the first major changes for 15 years.

Chief Executive Officer, Dr Jack Dowds, said the proposed changes are intended to improve the efficiency of the Council's operations and to enhance the delivery of services to ratepayers.

The draft organisation structure presented for consultation features:

 

· Three delivery channels – Corporate, Infrastructure and Services, Planning and Environment

· Clear reporting lines and realistic numbers of staff for managers

· Appropriate administration support for managers and the CEO

· Positions offering challenge and variety

 

Staff and the Public Service Association are being consulted on the proposed structure and the process for moving staff into the new structure.

They have until 2 October to provide feedback with a new structure unlikely to be announced until the beginning of November.

Dr Dowds said, "I want to emphasize that these proposed changes are not intended to be cost-cutting or staff reduction measures, but a genuine effort to respond more flexibly and effectively to the needs of our ratepayers.

"For example, at the moment I have 25 people reporting directly to me – a structure that has to change in the interests of efficiency.

'Earlier this year, the Council took great pride in being one of the best councils in New Zealand in its response times to RMA applications. That's a record we want to continue and improve on, which is why we have brought forward these proposed changes.

'I recognise that change is unsettling and I give an assurance that all staff will be fully consulted before final decisions on these proposed changes are made.'