The Balance of Time

A local authority must make its decision on a proposed policy statement or plan within 2 years of publicly notifying the statement or plan. 

It is important to keep staff and councillors refreshed: 

Spread the hearing process out - it is better to avoid cramming too many hearings together (although note the hearings process must be completed within two years of notification). 

Ensure that the decision-makers reconvene as soon as possible after hearing the submissions - preferably set a time straight afterwards. 

Find ways of maintaining 'team spirit' (for example, hold social events for the committee and/or some event to recognise achievement). 

Use discussion sessions to focus on some issues and to clarify thinking.