Councillor comments

Over the last several months councillors and staff have been busy completing the annual plan. As a councillor I was stoked to have the amount of submissions from residents and rate payers to the annual plan. This reinforces to me that we have a community that cares about their district. As you will be aware there is a rate increase. While we have tried to keep the increase as low as possible there are some major issues that we cannot ignore. Safe drinking water is at the top of the list and one that will have a big impact on the finances. 

The spatial plan has kicked off and I urge you to get involved in the creation of this plan. After all it will form the future of our district and towns. There will be plenty of opportunity for you to have your say. We will advertise through every means possible about upcoming consultation meetings. Please get involved early. 

We will be starting work on the Long Term Plan over the next short while, so once again like the spatial plan put some thought into how you would like to see the future for the district.

While Covid 19 is still a big threat and occupies our minds, life still goes on and we must work together to protect our district and communities. Council is here to help in any way possible. If you are having difficulties with rates please talk to one of our team. There are many ways that we can help you get through this. If you are aware of someone having difficulties please talk to us we may be able to get the required help. We are not out of this yet and there will be more hurt to come. 

  Watch out for your friends and neighbours and above all keep safe.

Brian Jephson