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Regional Council notes

December 19, 2017 December 2017, Regular Features No Comments

It’s hard to believe that another year has passed by and we are once again close to celebrating Christmas. You could say that he last twelve months have been a mixed bag for Wairarapa with a share of both highs and lows.

Overall we are we are flourishing with economic growth outstripping other parts of the region and property values increasing sharply. Development is buoyant and councils are issuing a record number of consents. For many this a godsend but the flip side is considerable pressure on the rental market and a shortage of affordable homes for those less well off.

In stark contrast some community organisations have struggled to find funding and our region had more than its share of suicides. Actually, even one suicide is one too many and we must look hard at ourselves to see what we can do better to prevent such a sad loss of life and support the families who are left to pick up the pieces.

Even our weather has been all over the place with traditional seasons seemingly a thing of the past. Winter was much wetter than usual with farmers up to the top of their Redbands in mud. The usual equinoxal gales of spring didn’t materialise but the rain carried on into spring then ‘hey presto’ everything suddenly dried up and the ground began to crack. This summer is forecast to be hot and dry. This may be good for BBQs or a day at the races but there is nothing like a drought to focus the attention on the need for water storage.

Last summer’s weather was pretty depressing with rain and wind ruining several events. It didn’t keep the visitors away however and Wairarapa’s increased popularity with tourists highlighted another challenge for our region – people pressure. More people meant more pressure on our infrastructure, our facilities and our environment. None of these are insurmountable but to be addressed they do require a joined up approach throughout the whole of the Wairarapa.

This leads to the last point, reorganisation of our local government. A poll has been called and voting papers must be in by 12 December. Look to the future and tick the ‘yes’ box.

Merry Christmas everyone. See you next year. Adrienne Staples

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