We Say/You Say: MMP
Hi Hamilton,
Would you support the introduction of MMP to local body elections?
A former Labour minister has called on the government to implement MMP as the voting system for local body elections in a bid to 'fix' local government.
Peter Neilson, an economist, is a former Labour MP for Miramar, a Minister of Revenue, Works and Associate Minister of Finance. Neilson explains how MMP could have a positive impact on civic participation after data from Internal Affairs showed a decline in voter turnout.
Around four out of 10 New Zealanders on the electoral role turned out to vote in the last set of local elections. In comparison, around seven or eight out 10 voted in the general election last year.
Share your thoughts below and don't forget to type NFP if you don't want your comment featured in the Hamilton Press.
Poll: Do you think banning gang patches is reasonable?
With the government cracking down on gangs, it is now illegal for gang members to display their insignia in public places whether through clothing or their property.
This means arrests can be made if these patches are worn in places like restaurants, shops, on public transport or ferries, and on airplanes. Arrests were made recently at a funeral.
Do you think this ban is reasonable?
-
77% Yes
-
21.6% No
-
1.4% Other - I'll share below
Have you come across many roadworks sites recently?
The frustration of seeing a detour sign partway through your journey on the main highways possibly the new way forward when it comes to roadworks.
One of the latest areas to have a section of the road blocked off is State Highway 1 between Putāruru to Tokoroa as part of a massive renewal project that extends down to Waiouru.
Have you come across many roadworks sites recently?
Poll: Do you think this was the right decision?
Hamilton City Council is defending a $60,000 spend on a flood of water management PR featuring a TV personality as residents face huge rates rises.
At a time of council cash constraints, Te Radar - real name Andrew Lumsden - catches the eye on the council’s Facebook page, where he currently features in three “explainer” video clips about Hamilton’s water services.
Do you think this was the right decision? Tell us your reasons in the comments (adding NFP if you don't want your words used in print).
-
5.9% Yes
-
88.2% No
-
5.9% Not sure