Proposal aimed at expanding their roles also places restrictions on spending, making them 'co-managers', they say
Strict limits are being proposed on the management of community facilities by district councils, under a package said to be aimed at strengthening their roles and functions.
District leaders have reacted with dismay to the plans, in a consultation paper to be discussed by the Executive Council tomorrow, saying it makes them no more than 'co-managers'.
Under the proposals, the councils would be allowed to manage dozens of libraries, swimming pools, community halls, recreational parks and sports centres, senior government sources said.
But their powers would not extend to decisions that increase government spending, reduce revenue to the treasury or increase manpower.
They also would not be allowed to alter the government's overall culture and leisure policies.