Decisions last term

I supported joining with Ruapehu in a 2 council CCO for Local Water Done Well. This is for a non harmonised model where each region will be responsible for their own spend. However, efficiencies are achieved through economies of scale & shared services. The ability to borrow, should the need occur. will be more easily managed with an increased debt headroom.

I opposed 3Waters in its entirety based on our region possibly losing local voice, and diminished advocacy opportunities around the table.

3 Waters

LWDW

Maori Wards

I supported Māori wards for equity purposes. There is a low representation of Māori in our region. Māori represent approx. 26% of our population (this is higher than the national average of 16% in NZ).  Acknowledging Te Awa Tupua, I honour that relationship that drives us to work together for the benefit of all in our region.

2nd Cr Law’s motion to retain the Aviary and handover to a community group to manage. Acknowledging this is a well-loved community asset, it was not within Council budget in efforts to keep rates as low as possible. This was the best decision at the time for all parties. This ensures the Aviary stays open for all of the community.

Aviary

Whanganui East Pool

Opposed the retention of the WE Pool. This is a 110yr structure. There is continued funds spent on Repairs & Maintenance, and we still have a 110 yr structure. It does not make good economic sense to continue to sink funds into this pool – neither can the rate payer afford this. Create something new for this space. Something that people across the generations can enjoy for many years to come. However, the vote was lost and $2m was allocated in the annual plan 25/26. I will ensure there is no scope creep within this spend.

Update: Further to the Citizens Assembly recommendations coming to Council, I voted to continue with the $2m allocated in the annual plan 25/26 given the vote had been won to that effect. I am committed to keeping an eye on the refurbishment to ensure rate payer funds of $2m does not creep.

Citizens Assembly

I supported this initiative which shows the Council does go to the people and value their insights and engagement in Civic matters.

Update: I supported the $2m (as above) but did not support doing a business case, at this stage, for further extension work at the splash centre. This will be taking up Council officers time when there is no clear path moving forward when or if an extension comes to fruition. With costs escalating consistently overtime, the business case should be done when a future council decides where in a long term plan, this should be scheduled. A business case done now, will have to be reworked further down the line. This would be a duplication and a waste of officers time.

125 Grey Street

I supported the option for de construction of this building to allow a long lease to take over. This building, while beautiful with history, was no longer fit for purpose and posed a debt to the rate payer that was not fiscally prudent. We can not save every building at any cost.  In aid of the low rate rise, I am continually looking for ways to not spend rate payer dollars where possible.

2.2 rates increase

I supported the 2.2 rate rise which meant not supporting requests for further funding. When funds are tight, we must budget in all ways necessary in order to achieve what we believe to be a prudent budget which continues to keep our assets maintained and the city vibrant & attractive while protecting the rate payers pocket.

Council Cost effiencies

I supported cost efficiency initiatives to the Council which included bringing in house our local economic developments agency. This alongside other initiatives and restructure has aided the efforts to reach the target of cost efficiencies amounting to $1.2m along with other internal cost cutting measures.

4 Star Hotel

Opposed. I was not in support of the plan in our 2024-2034 Long Term Plan to build a 4 star hotel, but rather, help to enable an investor to come and build & operate a 4-star hotel.  Construction is not part of council core business.