5 benefits of local govt reform

The talk about changes to local government has been around for decades so these current front-burner reform initiatives are welcomed.

The PNM’s commitment to making its manifesto promises government policy is refreshing as it begins to actually unfold.

There are five major benefits to the people of TT that local government reform offers: 1. All regional corporations will be empowered to acquire their own financing. This proposal allows the regional corporations the ability to retain certain taxes collected within their respective areas. This source of revenue will give regional corporations the resources needed to carry out the people’s business effectively.

2. The Municipal Corporations Act will be amended to give regional corporations executive authority and autonomy similar to that of the Tobago House of Assembly. This reduces the level of interference from central government in determining the affairs of local government bodies.

3. Allow municipal corporations the ability to engage suitably qualified contractors to perform roadworks, drainage and specific infrastructural projects. This will be accomplished by restructuring and decentralising the system of the decision-making process in favour of those responsible for local government.

4. Make it policy to give local contractors from within the relevant regions preference in the award of contracts. This is meant to stimulate local economic activity and build capacity.

This will foster a sense of real community pride as residents work on upgrading their physical space.

5. Local government bodies will act as first respondents in the event of natural disasters. This will involve collaboration between local and central government, without the need for waiting on the minister’s intervention.

This transformation being championed by Prime Minister Dr Keith Rowley will create another level of governance but this time closer to the people and their communities.

The representatives who are most knowledgeable about people and communities in need of government support are local government representatives.

Empower councillors and regional corporations with decision- making power and adequate resources and people will certainly feel the benefits of the impact.

RONALD HUGGINS St Joseph