Balance and progress sums-up Western Bay’s year

Western Bay of Plenty District Council has adopted its Annual Report, which shows Council is investing in the important things to help improve community well-being.

The Annual Report is when we reflect on the previous year’s mahi (from 1 July 2022 – 30 June 2023), and report on the progress, results and financial performance.

Western Bay of Plenty Mayor, James Denyer, says this past year has shown that we’re a determined and resilient community.

“It’s been another challenging year and tough for many people and communities across the Western Bay. However, I’ve been heartened to see the way people have come together to support each other and meet these challenges.”

As well as the uncertain economic environment and high cost of living, we were hit by a series of severe weather events - Cyclone Gabrielle, flooding and tornadoes. The damage both to people’s homes and belongings, and Council’s infrastructure was significant.

“Our teams did a great job of looking after our communities and managing our roads and infrastructure through the extreme conditions. There’s still work to be done to improve stormwater in some areas, and we’re committed to the mahi that’s required, with stormwater projects a key priority in this year’s Annual Plan.

“From an economic point of view, we’re feeling the pinch too. Planning for the future while ensuring prudent financial management remains our top priority,” adds Mayor James.

Mayor James – who’s completed his first year as Mayor – says he’s proud of what the Western Bay team has achieved in the past year.

“There are many highlights, including Council’s decision to adopt Māori wards for the 2025 and 2028 local body elections. This is a positive move that will lead to better, more inclusive decision-making.”

Housing is a key driver of well-being and Western Bay currently provides affordable rental housing for people over 65 with limited means in Katikati, Waihī Beach and Te Puke.

“We will expand our elder housing in Heron Crescent, Katikati, from 11 units, to 26 new units. This is a positive move and will be paid for by funding from Government,” says Mayor James.

“Looking ahead to 2024, there’s still a lot more mahi to do, but I’m confident that we have the vision and the commitment to achieve great things in the coming year.

“I'm looking forward to working with you all to make our District an even better place for ourselves, our tamariki and our future generations. At certain points this will require some tough decisions to progress key issues and priorities identified by you. I’m not afraid to make these difficult decisions – to choose the right decision over the popular decision,” he adds.

Priorities such as strengthening our climate change action plan, doing more to help address the nationwide housing shortage, and providing well-maintained, resilient and efficient infrastructure – infrastructure that responds to community needs, is fit for purpose and future proofed.

“From the Your Place Tō wāhi kōrero will be where much of this will be closely analysed, and debated, so we create a 10-year plan for the District that is robust, flexible and gives you confidence in the direction we’re heading,” says Mayor James.

“We will keep asking for your thoughts on key projects and big issues. I encourage you to have your say, as the feedback you share helps us set our priorities as we move into an exciting phase of change and growth.”

To read the Annual Report go to: www.westernbay.govt.nz/2022-23annualreport