Connected Community is a Resilient Community

By Angela Brown, Community Board

We have now completed our Emergency Resilience Series _ a collaboration between WREMO (Wgtn Regional Emergency Management Office), SWDC and the Community Board. 

This series is the start of Emergency Resilience planning for our community. We are so fortunate to have such engaged, supportive and skilled individuals who are prepared to step forward in the event of an emergency.

The recent Leadership Skills Workshop attracted more than 30 people and we are confident the Emergency Community Hub Open Day which took place after this article went to press will have been well supported. If you would like to know more about the Community Hub and be involved in future activities, contact angela.brown@swdc.govt.nz

Resilience planning was just one of the goals set by the Community Board this year – another commitment was to fully understand our role as governors of the Pain Farm Estate.

We have been working with the council to update the policy which determines how this valuable asset is managed and how the funds are distributed. This has been a much longer process than anticipated but we are hoping to announce a funding application round before the end of this year. 

I know it has been frustrating for those waiting to apply for a grant, however the work we are putting in now will make the process much easier going forward.

The Martinborough Community Board were thrilled to be invited to participate in a celebration to acknowledge local legend Charlotte Harding, she contributes so much to our town through her many roles and in a voluntary capacity. Her mahi continues with the Martinborough Pump Track and we look forward to watching this project progress.

Charlotte is also behind the Magic in Martinborough event scheduled for the second weekend in December, with our much-loved Santa Parade incorporated into this event this year. 

As Christmas is fast approaching its time to start planning your business or community group float entry, get creative and register your interest via the community board. Mark Saturday 9 December on your calendar, come along, bring the whole family, enjoy the parade followed by MADCAPS Carols in the Square – a connected community is a resilient community, coming together is a perfect way to make those connections.

Consultations underway this month: Rating Policies Review – view the document via SWDC website or library. The review looks at how rates are allocated and considers the introduction of an additional rating category for holiday houses. Consultation closes on 15 October. This is an opportunity for everyone to offer feedback. 

Next “Meet the Community Board Drop-in Session” – Saturday 14 October 10am-12pm Waihinga Centre.