It's time for communities to get down to the nitty gritty as Western Bay of Plenty District Council moves into the next phase of its Long Term Plan - seeking direction on key themes from community conversations earlier this year.
The Long Term Plan sets the council's strategy and direction for the next 10 years (2018-2028).
It is revised triennially and tracked annually.
Phase Two of the community engagement on the LTP goes online this week and continues throughout October. This phase aims to test whether the council is having the right debate on the issues that really matter.
Key themes emerging from the community discussions are: the pace of change, building our communities, protecting the environment and getting around.
The council is inviting people to join an online conversation to share views on the various options and actions proposed for each of these themes. The online conversation poses questions for people to answer to help guide the council's decision making.
'Building our communities is important to create a sense of place and to retain their unique character. It is all about placing value on connections; social amenities, recreational space, educational opportunities, culture and art, a safe environment and vibrant town centres,” says WBOPDC communications team leader Alistair Gray.
'Protecting our environment and resources is high on communities' demands. The district has many natural features such as rivers, streams, beaches, forest parks, estuarine sanctuaries and wetlands. There is increasing awareness of the need to manage our resources well and sustain our environment for the future.
'Council is considering new options for waste management; for managing the slips at Omokoroa; for protecting wetlands; for working closely with tangata whenua to protect cultural and heritage sites and special features.
'Getting around is becoming a bigger challenge. People want safer roads; more cycleways/walkways and better planning for public transport and alternatives to taking the car.
'All these issues are central to Council's long term planning to set a strategic direction that will maintain the lifestyle that makes Western Bay special while encouraging economic growth.”
The final stage of consultation on the LTP will begin in March 2018 and will include online involvement and community based events.
1 comment
A Waste of Time
Posted on 03-10-2017 14:52 | By Chapsmate
WBOPDC have put up a smokescreen that says, "Aren't we wonderfull? We consult widely!"The truth is, this sort of operation is hidden away where majority seldom see it. Like the 'consultation' on ruining the free flow street plan that once was Te Puke. 1800 people signed a petition asking for the town to be returned to its free flowing pattern. More than 100 angry residents demanded the same at a council meeting. They werer told that the promise made at the beginning of the work ~ that, if unsatisfied, the work would revert ~ would now not happen. In spite of photographic evidence that emergency vehicles could no longer get through, council is adamant that its planners know what is best for the town, than residents. They don't ask angry shoppers who are no longer able to find a park.
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