Hong Kong must free its district councils to spearhead local improvements

In his 2013 policy address, the chief executive put forward the concept of "addressing district issues at the local level and capitalising on local opportunities". The government announced it would study "how to enhance the functions of district councils and enable members to play a more active role in district affairs, and facilitate the co-ordination of government departments in service delivery at the district level by the district officers".

Since then, pilot schemes have been introduced, giving Sham Shui Po and Yuen Long district councils decision-making power to steer support for street sleepers, to direct support for private buildings with upkeep problems, and to identify locations where shops extend onto public space, where bicycles are parked illegally and where mosquitoes breed. People may be surprised that these were not the job of district councillors already. Needless to say, these rather elementary schemes have proven to be successful and will be extended to all districts.

In enhancing district administration, the government is keen that changes are without significant policy repercussions or territory-wide implications. Schemes also should not involve matters under the Town Planning Ordinance, public works projects, legislative changes or law enforcement actions.

Even with these limitations in mind, there are several measures which can significantly enhance the relevance of district councils in delivering more liveable districts, including: the publication of a district annual report; the publication of a district plan; the envisioning of district urban enhancement plans with the community; and the setting up of a districts development office to expediently realise opportunities identified in all districts.

The first three of these proposals are administrative measures which can be brought in without any legislative change. District officers can implement these with policy support from the Home Affairs Bureau, technical support from relevant departments, a small increase in head count, and some community involvement and funding.

The production of a district annual report and a district plan would present known information about the district and improve efficiency and consistency in addressing district issues. They would also give residents - and other government departments - a clear overview of the major issues and developments in each district.

The annual report would cover existing and planned projects and services, including those related to development, infrastructure, transport, open space and education. As the reports would be produced each year, they would over time show the progress, or lack thereof, and empower the district council in pushing departments for more timely follow-up.