Councillor comment

Here we are the last Star for the year and what a year it has been. Despite the disruptions councillors, officers and staff have had a full on year. We have completed our first round of Long Term and Spatial plan meetings. Although the turnout at some of the meetings was not big on numbers, the content from those that attended was invaluable. 

We were also invited to our local Maraes to hear the views and ideas on how our Maori community see the future. All these meetings from every sector surprisingly had similar visions and desires for the future. 

In the New Year we will have the draft documents on the spatial and long term plan to go out for consultation, please get involved as this will be your last chance to help us to set the scene for the future. 

The long awaited Combined District Plan review has started; this review will take two to three years to complete. So once again when the consultation period starts get involved. We are fortunate that this review is running parallel with our LTP and Spatial plan; this will help with the process as we are getting valuable feedback that can be integrated into the District Plan       

On the local scene, particularly the coast and rural areas we are preparing for a very busy holiday period. With New Zealanders spending their holiday breaks within the country we can expect to have pressure put on the camping sites. This will mean that the facilities will be put under pressure. Council will have their bylaw officers out to help campers to have an enjoyable holiday. Please if you intend to spend some time camping please respect the environment.  

Finally have a great Xmas and New Year 

Keep safe, Brian Jephson