It’s more important than ever that residents speak up and let Rodney Local Board members know if the three-year plan, just released for consultation, is right for their community.
The board has prepared a draft plan that will guide local board decision-making in Rodney over the next three years on things like parks and playgrounds, community funding and group support, as well as events and programmes.
Now board members want to hear from residents and are asking them to fill out the simple online form at akhaveyoursay.govt.nz/localboardplans by 14 August.
Chair Brent Bailey says this consultation becomes even more important as communities and the council grapple with the aftermath of extreme weather events, council’s financial pressures and an economic recession.
“We face many challenges, including the devastating impact of this year’s extreme weather events, as we enter some of the most difficult financial years we have ever experienced.
“Everyone knows that council budgets are tight, and about the impact of council’s tough financial situation on local board budgets.
“Some of our communities are really struggling, and we know that conditions have changed a lot since our last plan was developed.
“We hope that through the proposals in this plan, we can support residents to recover, adapt and grow stronger together.”
The plan reflects community aspirations and needs which are included in five key areas – people, community, environment, places and transport. Key objectives and the initiatives that the board wants to see delivered are listed under each area.
Bailey says the plan also guides local investment and advocacy for what local communities need.
“We know about the priorities that residents have raised with board members which are important for community life but are not decisions for the local board to make.
“Our commitment to you is to advocate on your behalf for these important outcomes which are outlined throughout the plan.
“We hope this plan will be your plan as much as ours and that you will talk to your local board members and tell us if we have got it right.”
Ways to have your say
There are a range of ways that Rodney residents can have their say, whether it’s submitting a form online or attending an event.
For those who value in-person events and want to present to board members, there are hearing style events taking place in Kumeū and Warkworth. Each submitter has 10 minutes to present and board members may ask questions for clarification. To book your slot, please email rodneylocalboard@aucklandcouncil.govt.nz.
- The Kumeū event takes place on Wednesday 26 July, 4pm-6pm at the Kumeū meeting room, Kumeū Library and Council Services, 296 Main Road, Huapai.
- The Warkworth event takes place on Wednesday 9 August, 4pm- 6pm at the Rodney Local Board Office, 3 Elizabeth Street, Warkworth.
Another way to give feedback and view the plan, is online at akhaveyoursay.co.nz/localboardplans website. Here people can download and read a copy of the 2023 Draft Upper Rodney Local Board Plan and fill out a simple online form.
The plan can also be viewed at a local library, and people can pick up a submission form.
Feedback must be received before consultation closes at 4pm on Monday 14 August.
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