Photo: ODT filesRising tensions at Invercargill City Council have prompted a move from the Department of Internal Affairs (DIA) which could result in the Government intervening in the problem-plagued local authority. "The move comes as ongoing tensions between elected members, and at times, between elected members and staff, have regularly been subject of public, media, and social media debate," the statement from ICC said. Invercargill Mayor Sir Tim Shadbolt said an opportunity to learn, improve, and strengthen the work being undertaken around the council table, and the relationships between elected members and staff, was welcomed by all elected members. Elected members have welcomed the opportunity to demonstrate that we have the ability to serve our community well," Sir Tim said. "Feedback from elected members is that this has streamlined the decision-making process, rather than waiting for the six-week cycle of meetings it had previously," Mrs Hadley said.

Source: Otago Daily Times August 24, 2020 04:07 UTC