The Wellington Ratepayers’ Alliance is alarmed by reports that Wellington City Council Chief Executive Matt Prosser is working to undermine the democratic mandate of Mayor Andrew Little and Councillors.

Spokesman for the Wellington Ratepayers’ Alliance James Ross said:

“While we question the financial wisdom of insourcing cleaning services, we respect the democratic mandate with which Mayor Little and Councillors have made the decision to consider the option.”

“The Chief Executive has no business telling the democratically elected Mayor and Councillors what policy decisions they can and can’t make.”

“The line between governance and management is too often weaponised by recalcitrant officers who are pushing their own barrow.”

“But ultimately it is up to the Mayor and the Councillors to decide where that line should be drawn.”