Tell us what you think
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 (LTP) sets Council's strategy and direction for the next 10 years (2018-2028). It is revised three yearly 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 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 our environment and getting around.
Council is inviting people to join an online conversation through our have your say western bay platform 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 Council's decision making.
The pace of change is making its mark on the District and our communities have made it clear they are keen to see Council making more investment into some areas, with a minimal effect on rates. We are asking our communities what their highest priorities are and how Council's work and investment can match.
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.
Protecting our environment and resources is high on our communities' demands. Our 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.
We would love you to be part of the next conversation. So join us on have your say western bay or visit Council's Facebook page where you can post your feedback on the LTP themes and options.
The final stage of consultation on the LTP will begin in March 2018 and will include online involvement and community based events.
This time around, the LTP occurs in three community engagement stages - the first sets the agenda, the second checks back in using a set of themes, and the third tests the specific proposals for the plan.
