That 9 August deadline – pitched as giving councils a “head start” on amalgamation discussions – is fast approaching. “It’s not just amalgamation, and I think that’s the problem with the government’s head-start proposal is amalgamation is the only option within that process. “Our position is and has always been that we will work with councils – head start was specifically designed to give councils control over their plans. “Change is coming and the government will progress with the back stop for councils not in the head start. When asked about mayor Gilmore’s comments, RMA Reform Minister Chris Bishop said mayors should refrain from making private conversations public.