From the Mayor

It is now four months since the first meeting of the new triennium, the new council has certainly been busy. My aim was to give all councillors and Community Boards enough information and training to allow them to make decisions in an informed way, get to know each other and bring the council together as a group. I also wanted the Community Boards to work together more closely for mutual support, share ideas and learn from each other.

We have undertaken training and workshops provided internally by senior staff and externally through Local Government New Zealand’s Equip. These sessions have included a couple of days for strategic planning and setting values, an overview and insight into the workings of council from rates, to plans and policies. We have had a tour of council facilities and infrastructure. Councillors have had opportunities to attend courses ranging from running and chairing meetings to communications and finance. Councillors have been keen to take up these opportunities.

Councillors are talking to each other, sharing ideas and actively participating in discussions and debate. They have al shown a willingness to ask questions, listen and give their opinion. This is a huge advancement in a very short time where 2/3rds of them were new. I believe we already have a hardworking competent council.

I have spent a good deal of my time in Martinborough over the last few weeks. Not just in the office but attending the many events that the town has hosted. I was invited to speak at the first meeting of Lions for 2017. I have had a look at the demolition work in the Town Hall and met with Craig Nelson principal of Martinborough School. I am very impressed with the school and what it is doing for the kids of Martinborough.

The Local Government Commission is expected to release its proposal for the future governance of the Wairarapa in mid-March. Watch out for information and the chance to have your say.

Viv Napier