LTP information event ‘great idea’

FOR THEM: Children were encouraged to be a part of the LTP event organised by Gisborne District Council at Marina Park and the Rose Room on Saturday. Colouring in outlines of this region's natural and urban environment were, from left, Jhurnee Swann, Hiki Swann, Bayley Gordon, Eli Theobald, Zebrina Cowley and Felix Theobald. Picture by Liam Clayton

Many people took advantage of the opportunity on Saturday to chat with Gisborne District Council representatives about six categories of the council's LTP (long term plan).

Council staff were on hand for informal chats and displays with simplified graphics were set up within Civil Defence air shelters at the Marina Park.

“This is a way for people to get a quick snapshot of the council's plans for the next 10 years and to promote a simplified picture of what we plan to do so we can get a level of insight from the community,” said councillor Isaac Hughes.

“This gives an indication of what the community at large wants done, not just loud voices from the same few people.”

The six categories — flooding, roading, biodiversity, water pipes, wastewater, and township upgrades — were chosen because each had distinct options. Several of the categories had a “preferred option” and a “spend more” option.

Biodiversity. for example, had “spend the same” and a “spend more, do more” options with at-a-glance information about rates increase amounts, impact of debt and community outcomes for both options.

The council will discuss the public's feedback for the LTP, he said.

While many planned their Saturday morning visit to the informal LTP chats, others were lured by the attractions that included a coffee cart, music, zorbs for kids, and food.

“We were attracted by the smell of barbecued sausages,” said Bridget French.

“We chased the kids and ended up here. I think this is a great idea. (GDC communications adviser) Fraser Hopkins explained the whole thing. I have more information now from our conversation, and the information from Fraser, rather than just speculation.

“I'm all for a rates increase. If they can get all of this done in 10 years I'm OK with a 6.5 percent increase.”

A clear breakdown of proposed rates changes is outlined in the booklet, Our Tairawhiti, which also contains a simplified presentation of information about the GDC's LTP. It is available at the council offices Awarua, in Fitzherbert Street.

“I see some projects are more necessary than others and need to be prioritised but I wasn't aware of it until I was spoken to about it,” said Dan French.

■ The series of LTP “town hall” meetings continue tonight at Iretekura Marae in Waipiro Bay, 5.15pm-6.30pm, and at Te Karaka's Rangatira Scout Hall, 6.30pm-8pm.

■ On Wednesday a “drop in” LTP meeting will be held at the Ngatapa community hall and on Thursday a councillor-led LTP hui will be held at Makauri School, 5.30pm-7pm while on Sunday the community event will be held at Manutuke School, 10am–1pm.