A Word from the Mayor
Autumn is the time to celebrate the magnificent colours that this cycle of life brings, and also the time to look towards our National day of commemoration ANZAC day, when we can come together and remember.
As a district we have many things to be grateful for, our relative safety and amazing people, many of whom may be acknowledged through our council Community Service awards, of which until 1 May we are receiving nominations.
Our volunteer services particularly FENZ and St John are valuable and critical assets to keep our district safe however I am conscious that still some properties have no or poorly identified numbers at the farm gate. It is my desire to support our emergency services with as many rural properties to have the correct identification – this could mean critical minutes to save your life or your property. I urge you to act now. https://www.hurunui.govt.nz/property-rates/rapid-numbers
Your councillors and I have been diligently working through the budget for this incoming fiscal year, and plan to come and speak with you over the month of May.
Last week’s announcement from the government on simply changing the number of water entities from four to ten, will not alter the position of council, as it continues to deny local communities ownership and real influence in regard to their assets. It has been touted that too little scrutiny by some councils is reason to invest up to $180 billion over the next 30 years, however the community need to understand that these numbers are significantly overinflated.
Don’t get me wrong, many councils have brought this issue on themselves by kicking the can down the road – but Hurunui District Council has always front footed this issue and worked towards achieving compliance and have been forecasting for the future, to achieve Drinking Water Standards, as regulated by Taumata Arowai. Our level of investment has been significant with a further investment projected as capital works for the incoming financial year.
I have heard from you on many occasions that it is important as a district we continue to advocate for the retention of ownership, coupled with the rights that ownership bring and to ensure your voice is heard, to retain the ability to be influential for decisions on investment. “Three water reform” or “Affordable water reform” no matter what you want to call it will become a political issue in the upcoming general election.
As many of you will be aware we opened a dedicated Mayoral account to assist those effected by Cyclone Gabrielle. This account will be available until the end of April. If you are willing to assist please use these bank accounts details 03-0802-0946666-00 reference CYCLONE. Many thanks to all have supported.
Have a great week.