Wellington City Council Proposes Cuts to 64 Staff Positions

The Wellington City Council is proposing an organizational restructure to achieve $31.7 million in savings identified in its Annual Plan and reduce forecast rate rises. The plan involves disestablishing 144 roles and creating 80 new positions, resulting in a net loss of 64 jobs. Affected areas include the property, planning, environment, communications, events, climate change response, Creative Capital, and Economic and Engagement teams.

The move follows a cost-saving effort led by Deputy Mayor Ben McNulty and a report by Deloitte, commissioned by Chief Executive Matt Prosser, which found the council was overstaffed by 330 employees. Mayor Andrew Little has declined to comment on the proposal, describing the restructure as an operational matter. The council stated it is consulting with staff to ensure feedback is reflected in final decisions.

The Public Service Association (PSA) has condemned the proposal, arguing that the current tight job market and potential council amalgamations make this an inappropriate time for a restructure. PSA Assistant Secretary Tom Buckley stated the plan creates huge upheaval for loyal workers and threatens the delivery of local services. While the union acknowledges the need for savings to limit rate rises, it urges the council to reconsider the human cost and the impact on a local economy already strained by national public service cuts.