UHCC starts organisational review amid challenging financial time

Published on 07 February 2024

Geoff Swainson

In a recent announcement to staff, Upper Hutt City Council Chief Executive Geoff Swainson signalled the need to reduce operational costs as the council prepares its draft 2024-34 Long Term Plan.

“As a result, we will be reviewing our structure, systems, and processes to ensure they are fit for purpose and that we are as efficient and effective as we can be to deliver on Council’s priorities,” he says.  

The challenging operating environment is further compounded by affordability constraints, high inflation, and the need to enhance the Council's financial resilience.

Swainson reiterated the importance of transparency in the staff communication.

Alongside the planned organisational review, some targeted changes in service levels will be subject to community consultation as part of the Long-Term Plan development in the upcoming months.

  "We are navigating a complex financial landscape, and the input of our community to the upcoming Long-Term Plan consultation is crucial as we make decisions that impact us all."