Column: Help shape a satisfied society

I love debate and subscribe to the view everyone is entitled to an opinion. If we all agreed, life would be somewhat dull. If none of us ever agreed, life would be a constant battle.
We have to form a middle ground where we can live with the opinions of others, but still have a view of our own.
Some opinions are based on fact, some are subjective and others are supportive statements on others' opinions. Some have no basis of statement and, I suspect, their holders just love to see their sign-off at the bottom of the letter.
Those who are easily misguided or struggle to research whether a particular statement is true are likely to blindly agree and adopt the view of the submitter, often reading opinion as fact.
Sitting on the fence is an easy way out and, in today's world, all too common. Societal apathy is systemic - and worrying when the decisions of a few will direct the many, as in our political system. Low voter turnout in local body and general elections and very low support for jury attendance from capable and able judicators results in poor quality decisions and, in turn, a dissatisfied society.
So, how can you change what you believe is not working or support what you think is working in Rotorua? You could write opinion pieces to the media, but this is likely to have little weight when it comes to changing the view or focus of those charged with making your decisions on your behalf.
The best approach is to contribute by way of the planning process. The Draft Rotorua District Plan will be open for submissions from April 16 and is an opportunity for you and I, as ratepayers, to submit a well thought out view on issues and opportunities that affect us all.
The Fresh Ideas website - www.fresh-ideas.co.nz - provides all the activity areas likely to be debated in the upcoming consultation of the district plan. The website is being refreshed so, come April 16, the draft district plan can be accessed on the web, along with research documents that helped shape the key policies and rules of the district.
The district plan consultation is a staged process, meaning it doesn't seek to address all areas of focus at once, giving you plenty of time to think about what you would like to submit and speak to our elected members personally, if you wish.
If there are parts of the district plan you feel are impeding or adding to the growth and wellbeing of our city, have social, environmental or cultural implications that you believe add value or are contrary to the values and lifestyle you want for Rotorua long term, submit your opinion online at the Fresh Ideas website or by post.
Your views are welcomed by Rotorua District Council.
- Grant Kilby is the general manager for Destination Rotorua Economic Development