Voter turnout could be an issue for a proposal to introduce binding referendums on major council spending projects. 

The Local Government Business Forum has released a report in favour of holding referendums for significant projects exceeding $500 per ratepayer. 

It says it should only apply to non-essentials, preserving councils' ability to invest in key utilities like water and transport.   

Forum Secretary Nick Clark told Mike Hosking thresholds need to be in play to help low voter numbers. 

He says there should be a turnout threshold or a super majority, particularly if it's a binary choice. 

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