The official discussion is required every six years.
The Clutha district representation review will look at the number of councillors, ward boundaries and names and whether more or fewer community boards are needed for fair representation.
"We are ... asking for feedback on whether the current structure of council and community boards is working ... or if there is a way we can improve," council chief executive Steve Hill said.
A major proposal is to reduce councillors to nine.
The council has 15 elected members — the mayor and 14 councillors representing eight wards, which divide the district for election purposes.
Some members, such as the mayor, are elected from the whole district "at large", while others are elected by ward.
It is key to "fair and effective representation" that each member represents about the same number of people, hence the review of the number of members and borders of wards.
"When I first started, a councillor’s duties were a fraction of what they are now," Clutha District Mayor Bryan Cadogan said.
"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.
"The main point for me is the present structure excludes the majority of society," he said.
"For democracy to function at its best we should have a broader cross-section of society and that just is not occurring under the present system.
"I’d like to see council transform into something that attracts a broader, younger cross-section, excited about representing our modern communities."
This might be achieved by streamlining the way council managed business and changes in member numbers and remuneration, the mayor said.
"Councils are not paid by ratepayers. Our pay is managed by the Remuneration Authority.
"They provide a pool which is shared out to the various members, and fewer members would mean more for those who remain."
Information about the council’s initial proposal, including reducing elected councillors from 14 to nine, ward maps and a consultation form, are available online or from the Rosebank council office, community libraries and the Clutha isite Visitor Information Centre.
Consultation via public submissions is open until September 2, with the process to be completed and any changes implemented in time for the October 2025 elections.
