Western Bay establishes Emergency Council Committee

Western Bay of Plenty District Council has increased its COVID-19 contingency plans setting up an Emergency Council Committee.

Councillors unanimously agreed this morning to form the committee following yesterday’s Government announcement that New Zealand has moved to Alert Level 3 – moving to Alert Level 4 at 11:59pm on Wednesday 25 March.

Western Bay Mayor Garry Webber says these are unprecedented times and the emergency committee would streamline Council's decision making during the pandemic response.

“This committee will allow us to quickly adapt to the rapidly changing situation and provide a fast response to our community,” says Garry.

“At all times, Council has responsibilities to keep lifeline utilities and essential services running and to make appropriate and timely decisions.

“Today’s decision reflects this in what is a very pragmatic process.”

The Emergency Committee will consist of four members: Mayor Garry Webber, Deputy Mayor John Scrimgeour and two other Councillors depending on the issue.

All Council, and Community Board meetings, workshops as well as Ward Forums are suspended until further notice, effective immediately.

Responsibility for day-to-day Council operations and associated delegation during the Alert Level 4 response remains with Council CEO Miriam Taris.