Opportunity for LGNZ to set new path with departure of Sam Broughton

The Taxpayers' Union is welcoming the resignation of disgraced former Selwyn Mayor Sam Broughton as head of the LGNZ lobby group and says it is a chance for the organisation to hit the re-set button and appoint someone on the side of local democracy, not the Labour Party or partisan politics.

Taxpayers' Union spokesman Jordan Williams said:

"This is obviously sad for Sam, and we wish him well in his next endeavours, but it is a chance for LGNZ to draw a line in the sand and set a better path."

"With most New Zealanders living in council areas not joined up to LGNZ, unless something changes, it risks losing its legitimacy or even viability."

"In recent weeks, we've been hearing reports that Sam Broughton was lining up former Hutt City Mayor and Labour Party-activist Cambell Barry for the LGNZ CEO role. Such an appointment would be a nail in LGNZ's coffin, and we hope the reports are wrong."

"Like we say about local councils, LGNZ should stick to its knitting, core services, and not get caught up in activism and politics."