Letters: Positives and negative moves by Tauranga City Council

Only a few days apart, there were two pieces of news in the BOP Times regarding the Tauranga City Council administration: one negative, the other positive.

The negative news, in my view, was a statement by the council to the effect that it was unlikely that the result of the internal investigation into the Bella Vista housing wreck would be released to the public because it is an internal employment matter (News, January 19).

Is that a hint that a cover-up may be in the wind?

The positive news was that the CEO, Marty Grenfell, plans to bring about a shift in the council's structure, beginning with a reduction in the number of general managers, and improving performance (News, January 23). That's a really good way to start, Marty.

Marty also spoke about "doing things with the community" not merely for the community.

Another big tick! He will be taking another look at the Phoenix Park and Greerton CBD redevelopments.

While you're at it Marty, kindly also review the council's decision to make a cycleway along Grenada St.

The decision appears to me to make the cycleway more important than the convenience of the people living in the street and motorists and, it might be said, is contrary to common sense.

Barry Scott
Papamoa Beach

Change needed at WBOPDC

I hugely support and respect Tauranga City Council's restructuring. I also strongly respect Tauranga's mayor, a proven successful private enterprise person in his own right, for helping instigate such good business principles in the city.

Previously Thames Coromandel did this with huge success. Held their rates for six years. I believe it is time that the Western Bay of Plenty District Council (reported as having the highest urban rates in New Zealand) refocuses totally.

I would like an audit on rate levels, proposed rate increases, an efficiency and productivity audit, also staff number review. A relook at sensitivity and listening more to the public and less to staff.

Once more, good on you Greg Brownless, I and my long-suffering ratepayers need relief and change in more ways than one.

This may help stop the exodus of many of our lovely people, who love Katikati, but can no longer afford to stay here. We must support basic infrastructure, not "nice to haves" like cycleways, which would be okay if we could afford them.

Roll on October elections, people power may yet win. Our ratepayers' association is leading the charge.

Norm Mayo
Katikati
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