[Not government policy]
8. If a decision was taken to let local/regional waste levies operate as they emerge
If a decision was taken to support the emergence of local/regional levies, it needs to be clearly signaled and acted on, also without delay. The actions that are needed are essentially to actively assist where asked. This is a ‘one size does not fit all’ situation and government’s best role might be to prepare guidance on structures and arrangements for different models. In Auckland the actions probably include helping to facilitate the creation of the waste region groupings and possibly some standard by-laws.
Changes to the Local government Act may be needed depending on the outcome of the judicial review. If the findings are that the powers are not as they believe them to be then changes would be required to establish powers that the Territorial Local Authorities need. There may be other amendments to allow for or facilitate the establishment of a combined Territorial Local Authority waste region.
Changes to the Act could also address how levy funds could (and could not) be used. This would be necessary to help ensure greater cooperation and/or compliance by waste operators.
