Social resilience, culture and heritage, a sustainable environment, and supporting a thriving economy will shape Council’s priorities for the next decade.
Waipā District Council checked with Waipā communities earlier this year to begin planning for the next Long Term Plan and make sure Council’s priorities line up with the needs and aspirations of residents.
Feedback was gathered through an online survey as well as face-to-face at neighbourhood BBQs held across the district. There were also detailed interviews with local business people and organisations to determine current and future goals for the district.
Residents said building vibrant communities, preparing for climate change and attracting visitors were the areas they saw as most important to wellbeing. Climate change, the environment, sustainable living, water and housing supply were also highlighted as primary issues facing the district.
Further comments from residents indicated that improving infrastructure, community facilities and cycleways, should be considered in long-term planning.
Promoting the use of Te Reo Māori, sharing the district’s stories and fostering the arts and creative industries, were acknowledged as equally important.
Stakeholders feedback was similar. They said reducing inequalities, strengthening the social services sector and enhancing infrastructure should be priorities for long-term wellbeing. Increasing business opportunities and focusing on retail and main street survival were also issues to focus on for a thriving economy.
Waipā Mayor Jim Mylchreest said by law, local government is required to promote social, economic, environmental and cultural wellbeing, so pre-engagement on the next Long Term Plan was framed up under those themes.
“We’ve developed a really good understanding of what wellbeing aspects residents would like to see us prioritise in the future, and this will steer us in the right direction for the next 10 years,” Mylchreest said.
“We’ve been working through a list of priority projects and will be consulting with Waipā communities in early 2021. At the same time we’ll be able to update the community on potential rating impacts depending on which projects they want us to proceed with.”
The Long Term Plan sets out the activities, budget, financial strategy and key financial policies of the Council for the next 10 years, as well as the infrastructure strategy for at least the next 30 years.
The Long Term Plan is required to be updated every three years.
For more information go to www.waipadc.govt.nz.
