The Clutha council First XV could be slimmed down in a bid to attract fresh talent to the team.
The Clutha District Council is proposing to drop five councillors from its present structure as part of its statutory six-yearly representation review, out for public consultation at present.
The representation review aims to consider whether existing representation is fair and effective, and how much councillors will be paid.
Clutha District Mayor Bryan Cadogan said he believed the present structure — consisting of 14 councillors and a mayor — could be deterring some people from seeking election.
A reduction to nine councillors and mayor could be one way to address this, he said.
"The main point for me is the present structure excludes the majority of society. For democracy to function at its best we should have a broader cross-section of society and that just is not occurring.
"I’d like to see council transform into something that attracts a broader, younger cross-section, excited about representing our modern communities."
Mr Cadogan said this could be achieved by streamlining the way council managed business, and changing councillor numbers and remuneration.
"Councils are not paid by ratepayers. Our pay is managed by the [central government] Remuneration Authority.
"They provide a fixed pool which is shared out to the various members.
"Fewer members would mean more for those who remain."
Increased remuneration could allow a bigger pool of younger, working people with families to consider stepping forward as councillors, where the need to work fulltime and provide childcare hindered this at present.
"When I first started, a councillor’s duties were a fraction of what they are now. The demands and expectations are now unrecognisable in comparison.
"I’d say it takes two to three full days, about 20 hours per week, to be an effective councillor — for minimal compensation. I promise not one councillor is doing it for the money.
"Every facet of council has evolved to meet the present day needs except the political arm."
He said the proposal now before ratepayers could address this.
The representation review will also consider ward boundaries and names, and the role of community boards.
Submissions are open until September 2. Any changes will be implemented in time for the October 2025 elections.
