Principles

The following Guiding Principles outline the way the 5 Hawke’s Bay councils work together:

Democratic accountability and governance

While thinking and planning regionally, all councils maintain their authority to implement a local solution relevant to the people living in each Territorial Authority; within the agreed common goals. To enhance regional cohesion it is necessary to consider the diverse communities, industries and businesses, both urban and rural, and significant Maori, Pacifica and Asian communities; this approach is intended to build and sustain regional harmony and productivity.

Collaboration First

Counterparts from each council get to know each other, share plans, practices and issues. They also work towards a bigger picture shared vision with common goals through open and honest conversation. Customer value, using the diverse knowledge and experience, sharing information, learning and creative thinking are valued in working groups. All initiatives: plans, reviews, audits, specifications, business cases, projects and business cases include a conversation about possible collaboration with all counterparts before starting a new initiative.

Joint Procurement

Councils collectively buy goods and service amounting to tens of millions each year. Contracts, licenses, agreements and purchase orders present opportunities for collaboration and joint procurement within Hawkes’ Bay and with other LASS organisations leading to improved service and reduce costs.

Alignment and Change

While working towards an overall regional direction, shared goals and a roadmap for improved service and value, it may take years for all councils to be aligned on the roadmap for implementation at the individual council level (budgets, pre-existing contracts, legacy solutions etc). Be prepared to let go of predetermined, individual council solutions over time to achieve a common goal.

Excellence

Work to improve customer service and value through streamlined, cost-effective processes, best business practices, leading change and innovation. Collaborative business and service reviews, processes and policy improve consistency and reliability in delivery of services creating capacity, critical mass of expertise, opportunities for development, reduced costs, improved efficiency, innovation and/or increased value. All Councils are capable of and subject to benchmarking and comparison with all councils in New Zealand.

Transparency

Initiatives are adequately resourced and investments in people, goods and services provide value and learning. Full disclosure and honesty is the norm.

Full justification and business case with options, impact and risk assessment are required for all proposed budget, capital and structural solutions identified.