APOLOGIES

There were no apologies.

HEARING SUBMISSIONS TO LTCCP - 2009-19 (38KB)

A report from the Chief Executive was presented regarding the 75 submissions received to the Draft Hauraki Community Plan 2009-19. This report included a full copy of each submission, a summary of each submission and staff comments, a summary of submission received in order of topic, and a draft report from Council’s Policy Analyst on the Key Community Issues which are to be considered by Council at a later date.

09/199 Carmine/Baker CARRIED

Mr Wilson supported Council’s Positive Ageing Strategy and the work that Council is doing in this field. Mr Wilson proposed to Council that Agewise may be able to add support and make further suggestions to improve the current strategy.

Mr Wilson spoke on the passenger transport issues identified by the community and a pilot scheme as a step towards ensuring the ongoing integration and improvement of transport services in the region. Mr Wilson proposed that a pilot coordinator is required to oversee the coordination and administration of an integrated passenger transport system to be set up in the Coromandel/Thames/Hauraki area. Mr Wilson has also presented his submission to neighbouring local councils and Environment Waikato. He seeks Council’s support to include into the Hauraki Community Plan 2009-19 a pilot scheme for a passenger transport coordinator to be supported and funded for overhead and communication costs over a 3 month trial period and then on an on-going basis if the role is successful.

The Mayor advised Mr Wilson that Council has allocated $12,000 for a pilot scheme within its 2009/10 budget in the Plan and this will be used only if Thames Coromandel District has budgeted to support the proposal as well.

RECOMMENDED

That the submitter be advised as follows:

Positive Ageing Strategy

The Positive Ageing strategy is due for review in 2010. At present there is no proposal to change the direction that the Strategy is currently taking, which includes the support of "International Day of the Older Person". However the community will be consulted to verify if this strategic approach is still the most appropriate.

Passenger Transport

That Council has provided support to an integrated passenger transport system and has allocated $12,000 for a pilot scheme which is budgeted in the Draft Hauraki Community Plan 2009-19 and this will only be used if Thames Coromandel District has budgeted to support the proposal as well.

Mr Homer Stubbs and Mr John Wilson presented their submission on behalf of the Waikino Liaison Committee regarding its proposal for the development of a car park and picnic area at Waikino. The submitters tabled additional supporting information to Council (doc #487060). The Committee proposes that Council consider developing a car park and picnic area beside State Highway 2 (beside the Ohinemuri River on the east of Waikino), near the site of the proposed swing bridge, with a picnic table and suitable trees planted to enhance the area as a Memorial to the 1981 flood devastation within Waikino. The car park would provide parking for people wishing to access the Victoria Battery and proposed Hauraki Rail Trail via the proposed swing bridge and also provide additional parking for the Waikino Hall functions. The committee had met with Transit to discuss its proposal and safety aspects.

The submitters, in answer to questions, were of the opinion that the parking area should be established prior to the bridge.

The Committee proposes to rebuild the old swing bridge with a Memorial bridge. The project is being managed by a incorporated society which is currently obtaining costings for the new bridge. At this stage the Committee is not looking for any financial assistance from Council for the bridge project. Its proposal has support from 60% of the local Waikino community.

RECOMMENDED

That the submitter be advised as follows:

Funding for maintenance and further development of plantings in Waikino Village

That the Waihi Ward has provided $1,000 in the 2009/10 year and each subsequent year in the Hauraki Community Plan 2009-19 to the Waikino Liaison Committee for the purchase of trees, tree surrounds, spray and fertilisers for maintenance of existing plantings and further development in Waikino Village, which is in keeping with past years.

Proposed Waikino car park and picnic area

That the proposals be referred to the Council’s Roading Engineer to report back to Council on an indicative scope and cost for the development of a car park and picnic area beside State Highway 2 (beside the Ohinemuri River on the east of Waikino), and then Council will report back to the Waikino Liaison Committee with its findings.

Mr and Mrs Aylward presented their submission with supporting information (doc #487091) regarding their requests to have Tramline Road sealed due to the severe dust hazard, the growth in the traffic numbers using the road and the road being severely damaged due to heavy vehicle traffic. The submitters stated that they have already contributed $9545 (via the development contribution process) towards the sealing of the road and initially were given a timetable by Council that Tramline Road was scheduled to be sealed in 2009. Since then this project has been rescheduled by Council on several occasions. The submitter requests that council should honour their commitment and reseal the road as first promised in 2009; otherwise they would like to see their development contribution of $9545 refunded. Mr Aylward stated that the current road was being used more due to growth in new properties, service vehicles to farms, the growth in the number of cow sheds and the consequent increase in heavy machinery which has accessed properties on Tramline Road to develop infrastructure.

Council discussed with the Aylwards that the Tramline Road sealing project has been deferred to start in 2011/12 due to the current decline in economic climate. It was also discussed that Council’s Roading programme is reviewed each year. Tramline Road’s current foundation specifications were not satisfactory for seal extension, and new foundations would be substantial due to the peat nature of the soil.

RECOMMENDED

That the submitter be advised that the road maintenance issues on Tramline Road will be actioned as soon as possible by the Network Contractor. The Tramline Road Seal Extension project is top priority and the first stage has been programmed to be sealed in 2011/12 with the second stage programmed to start in 2012/13.

Tania Young presented her submission on behalf of Te Korowai Hauora O Hauraki. Tania congratulated Hauraki District Council for its work done with the Hauraki youth by involving students at high schools to join the Youth Forum and to promote Council’s Youth Policy. Tania is based in Thames, but would like to support Council’s Youth Policy by becoming involved in any youth based projects that Council may look at in the future.

The Mayor and Councillors discussed the success of the youth projects and that council is looking at contacting the schools again this year to reignite youth participation in the forum and projects.

RECOMMENDED

That Council thank the submitter for their supportive comments in regards to Council’s implementation of its youth policy, and on the appointment of the Youth portfolio holder.

Gwendoline Welburn presented her submission on behalf of Te Korowai Hauora O Hauraki. Gwendoline introduced her support team from Te Korowai Hauora O Hauraki to the Mayor and Councillors. Gwendoline acknowledged and thanked Gill Leonard for her involvement with HEET, Mike Hayden for his involvement with the Hauraki Rail Trail, the Mayor for his ‘open door policy’ and Julie Stephenson of Sport Waikato for her work within the community.

Gwendoline encouraged the concept that Council plant fruit trees within the Hauraki District for the community to use. This would encourage easy access of healthy kai for the children. It was suggested that planting fruit trees would require less maintenance than gardens. Gwendoline is consulting a nutritionist for advice on the project. It was suggested that Northland are already planting fruit trees for the community to use.

Councillors agreed the idea was feasible and that groups within communities are already planting fruit trees and schools are growing gardens in the district.

RECOMMENDED

That the submitter be advised as follows:

Community Services

That Council thank the submitter for their supportive comments in regards to Council’s policies and work in the youth area which includes the consideration of the community wellbeing as stated in the Draft Hauraki Community Plan 2009-19.

Better Futures Hauraki

That the submitters wish to work with the Better Futures Hauraki forum on an on-going basis is appreciated.

Walking and Cycling Strategy

That the submitter is advised that as part of the development of the Walking and Cycling Strategy public feedback will be sought through a consultative process. The draft strategy is to be considered by Council in June 2009 followed by the consultative process.

Sport Waikato

That Council will continue to support the Sport Waikato District coordinator and the initiatives that address other activities besides than sports based projects (e.g. Active Living and Green Prescription).

Planting of fruit trees in Hauraki

That consideration of planting fruit trees within the district will be considered by council staff on a case by case basis depending on the site location and soil suitability. Council currently has lemon trees growing at the Ohinemuri Park.

Rodney Williams and Anne Harris presented their submission and provided additional information of the break down in costs for events held (doc 487288) and a copy of the results from a survey done of the Paeroa businesses (doc 487287).

Anne Harris explained that the budget allocated for events could either increase or decrease dependant upon where other funding for the event comes from. 75% of the funding for events can come from outside donations and gate sales. Anne suggested that if they received the requested grant that would be workable, plus an additional $5,000 for the ‘Art in Windows’ project. Positive Paeroa does a monthly report that can be given to Council is they require a copy.

Rodney announced that 100% of the businesses in the survey showed support of Positive Paeroa. Comments in the survey showed that the events held have a positive economic effect for the business community.

The Mayor noted that the reason last years budget was reduced from $80,000 to $50,000 was due to the $70,000 reserves shown in Positive Paeroa statements. Mr Williams explained that the amount of this reserve was due to the accumulation of the Town Promoter’s unpaid salary as there was no town promoter employed for a period of time. Since this time Anne Harris has been employed as the Town Promoter. $40,000 of this reserve has gone towards events held over the last year with a remaining $30,000 reserve remaining. It is expected that at the end of the financial year a $5-6,000 reserve will remain. Mr Williams explained that there was an increase in expenses due to the increase in overheads resulting from the office relocation.

Mr Williams discussed the need to improve the car parking situation in Paeroa. Some business owners are using the main street as their personal car park which does reduce the availability of parking for customers. Mr Williams requested that Council review the parking availability and options to improve this situation. After discussions with Paeroa business owners, Mr Williams suggested that business is slowing down in the current economic climate, which reinforces the case the Positive Paeroa needs to encourage more customers to come to Paeroa to spend by holding events. Positive Paeroa is currently creating a website with interest from business parties to link to their site.

Mr Williams pointed out that they struggle to see how Paeroa benefits from Tourism Coromandel projects. He would like to see more of the southern Coromandel corridor promoted in Tourism Coromandel publications and displays.

The Mayor and Councillors acknowledged the good job that Anne Harris has done as a Town Promoter. The Mayor suggested to the submitter that a service level agreement with Positive Paeroa could be appropriate where a budget could be reviewed and agreed upon to reduce the need for applying annually for continual funding.

The Council discussed the possibility of a further survey of Paeroa businesses in relation to attitudes to Positive Paeroa with the survey questions and methodology being approved by Council with the results being reported to Council prior to the consideration of the 2010/11 Annual Plan.

Lesley Gordon presented the Trusts submission to Council. Lesley thanked Council for its financial support and outlined the objectives and reasons for operating the Life Education Trust. The Trust visits 51 schools (5,500 to 6,000 children) and covers a large district including the Coromandel and Hauraki districts. An increase in funding was requested from Council to meet the double salary payment that occurred while a new educator was in training.

RECOMMENDED

That the submitter be advised the Council has approved funding of –

$10,600 for 2009/10

$12,500 for 2010/11

$15,000 for 2011/12 with inflation adjustment added for every year after this for the life of the Hauraki Community Plan 2009-19.

　

Mr Young presented his submission (on behalf of a number of developers) to Council requesting support from Council for those developers who develop a larger number of lots and contribute to the economic development of the District. Developers are trying to keep the cost of sections down, however this is becoming difficult when full rates are being charged for unsold lots. Mr Young believes that the second owner of the lots should take on the full property value rates. Mr Young requested that Council consider rating unsold lots (without housing) at a reduced amount until such time as the site has been sold or built on and that this ruling would only apply to subdivision of 10 lots or more, as smaller developments have the option off staging their title releases.

The Mayor and Councillors congratulated Mr Young on his first class subdivision in Waihi and his advertising brochure which also promotes the district. It was discussed amongst elected members the possibility of a rates remission or economic development grant policy.

RECOMMENDED

That the Corporate Services Manager draft a policy that would grant back a percentage of the rates to developers of subdivisions of 10 lots or more where lots remain unsold. This draft policy is to apply only to subdivisions of contiguous land areas and be for a maximum of two years on any individual lot. The Corporate Planning Manager is to produce this proposal to Council at the Council meeting of 10 June for discussion.

Mr Smith presented to council his concerns regarding the proposed skateboard park in Paeroa and encourages an extension to the walking track being promoted from Karangahake to Puke Bridge. Mr Smith proposed that a low level walking track be created on Primrose Hill and Taylors Reserve, Paeroa to link to other walking tracks being planned through the district. Mr Smith suggested that establishing a walking track in the reserve would be a valuable form of passive exercise for the local community and has support from neighbouring property owners of the reserve.

Mr Smith is against the proposal for a Paeroa skateboard park due to skateboarding not being as popular as it use to be and the associated destructive damage that could be caused by skateboarding youths to the community, including the personal accidental damage that the youths could inflect upon themselves.

Mr Smith would like to see that Taylors Reserve is improved with planting more trees and to stop the mountain bikers using the reserve as they are causing damage to the reserve. Mr Smith offered his time and experience in track building if Council is interested in doing a feasibility study for the walking tracks.

RECOMMENDED

That the submitter be advised as follows:

Primrose Hill and Taylor Reserve

That the matter be referred to the Paeroa Ward Committee to discuss the possibility of creating a walking track through Primrose Hill and Taylors Reserves.

Sustainability & Changing Demographics Debates

That Council thanks the submitter for his feedback on the Right Debate issues

That Council has adopted Council’s recommended options and has formed a focus group called the ‘Right Debate Focus Group’. This group will further develop methods by which Council’s preferred options can be progressed.

Mr Rush presented his submission to Council. Mr Rush believes that people are not living sustainably. Mr Rush would like Council to support sustainability in principle and asked Council to acknowledge the community groups/Transition Towns on their efforts to improve on sustainability within the community. These groups are working together on solutions to reduce the level of waste.

Transition Towns need to look at preparing for the future by using what resources we have now (e.g. oil) to build our future towns for a more sustainable living in preparation for when resources, such as oil run out. Mr Rush suggested building more sustainable houses through town planning and Council offering incentives for those who build sustainably. He also supported the idea of community gardens on unused public land.

Mr Rush suggested Council look towards improving public transport through the possibility of the reinstallation of a rail transport system being integrated back into the district which could link Hauraki to the close major cities. Mr Rush suggested that the process to build on these initiatives is a 10 – 30 year process towards achieving the outcomes of a better sustainable community.

RECOMMENDED

That the submitter be advised as follows:

Building Code

That Government incorporates sustainable design within the Building Code by making provision for energy efficient solutions and the use of durable materials. Council supports energy efficient solutions such as solar heating by reducing the building consent application fees and also supports the use of durable building materials. Council is not able to make changes to the NZ Building Code but can consider alternative solutions when approving designs as long as they meet the performance criteria of the Code. The submitter is encouraged to make submissions to the review of the Building Act and Building Code process that is being carried out at the central government level.

Renewable Energy

That Council suggests that it can only have an advocacy role with respect to renewable energy. A leadership role would surely be the role of central government and the energy providers. Council has the capability however through its District Plan and its democratic function to be able to support and advocate for renewable energy if it sees fit.

Town Planning

That the District Plan incorporates sustainable design concepts throughout the whole plan with its subdivision rules, protection of significant natural areas and the like. This is being considered as part of the current District Plan Review. This submission will be referred to the District Plan Committee for further consideration.

Public Transport

That it is Council's continued intention to participate fully in the regional transport debate. With regard to a rail network link as a long term target, it is understood that no plans exist for Rail to operate again in the Hauraki District. While the rail corridors are being held by On Track, Council is not aware of any plans to use them for rail again. It is questionable whether involvement by Council would deliver any outcome in this regard.

Sustainability & Climate Change Debates

That Council thank the submitter for his feedback on the Right Debate issues.

That Council has adopted Council’s recommended options and has formed a focus group called the ‘Right Debate Focus Group’. This group will further develop methods by which Council’s preferred options can be progressed.

Ms Katherine Lucas presented her submission to Council. Ms Lucas questioned why peak oil issues are not addressed in the Draft Hauraki Community Plan 2009-19. Ms Lucas suggested that Council needs to have in place systems embedding strong sustainability principles into the Hauraki Community Plan. She stated that Council plans needed to reflect the changing economic world.

Ms Lucas suggested that the agricultural farming of stock in the low lying farming pastures on the Hauraki Plains is creating a lot of damage and suggested these areas would be better suited to horticultural plantings such as Cranberry farming.

Mrs Lucas suggested Council needs to access other data from neighbouring Councils or agencies, such as Department of Conservation, to collect a higher quality of data regarding Climate Change matters rather than using only that information provided by NIWA which only focuses on sea level rises and flooding issues.

Mrs Lucas does not understand the staff comment regarding Re-use centre as only being operated by a private commercial enterprise.

RECOMMENDED

That the submitter be advised as follows:

Engagement with Tangata Whenua

That the submitter be thanked for their continued support and engagement with Council That Council values their input.

Paeroa Transfer Station Hours

That Council is reconsidering the specific days of operation of the Paeroa Refuse Transfer station and the hours of operation of both transfer stations. The District Engineer will provide further information for consideration at the Council meeting on 10 June.

Waste Water Treatment

That extensive improvement has been made to all treatment plants in the district except Kerepehi in the past decade. Kerepehi is programmed to be upgraded in 2008-2010. All upgrades have included consultation with the submitter, and their views have been considered when carrying out upgrade works. Continuous improvement is aimed for and the comment is noted.

Water Treatment

That it is believed that proposed upgrades to the four major treatment plants, and connection of smaller supplies to those plants will see a significant improvement to the design and performance of water treatment in the District. The extensive reviews carried out in setting the strategy behind the plan have shown that relocation of any of the major treatment plants would have cost dis-benefits to the community.

Stormwater Management

That the design and performance criteria set out in Hauraki District Plan are followed. Allowance for climate change is built into new Council infrastructure. Location is determined by catchment, topography, access and economic considerations. Continuous improvement is an accepted core principle.

　

Te Pai O Hauraki Marae and State Highway 26

Development options for the Marae are limited by the river and State Highway 26. This matter will be referred to the District Plan Committee for consideration. Any development in the areas around the present Marae could limit options for expansion.

Sustainability, Climate Change and Changing Demographics Debate

That Council thank the submitter for their feedback on the Right Debate issues.

That Council has adopted Council’s recommended options and has formed a focus group called the ‘Right Debate Focus Group’. This group will further develop methods by which Council’s preferred options can be progressed.

Megan Cleverly, on behalf of Surf Life Saving Bay of Plenty, presented its submission to Council seeking further funding. She requested that Council actively involve the Whiritoa Lifeguard Service in the development of any beach management plan. Ms Cleverly thanked Council for its continued support to Surf Life Saving and updated Council on last year’s operation and the current level of service.

RECOMMENDED

That the submitter be advised as follows:

Funding for Surf Life Saving

That Council has made provision to meet the request for funding of $21,000 + GST in the 2009/10 budget. The Whiritoa Surf Life Saving Club has again satisfactorily provided a lifeguard service over the recent summer and will no doubt repeat that performance in 2009/10.

Beach Management Plan

That Council staff will continue to work in partnership with Surf Lifesaving and consider their role in the safety of the Whiritoa Beach users of high importance.

That Council staff will consult with Surf Life Saving Bay of Plenty when making decisions on access ways to the beach, or beach reserve management planning when these issues may occur.

Mrs Myrtle Johnson presented her written submission to Council. Mrs Johnson requested that Council given additional attention to the Paeroa Cemetery, in particular the fencing, shrubs and gates including reinstating the rubbish bin back in the older part of the Paeroa Cemetery She stated that the toilets need improvement. Mrs Johnson also requested that when mowing the cemetery lawns it would be appreciated in the grass clippings could be directed away from the plots.

Mrs Johnson also suggested the need to place a shade sail over the grandstand portion of the Paeroa Pools during the school sports days.

RECOMMENDED

That the submitter be advised as follows:

Paeroa Cemetery

That the replacement toilet for the Paeroa Cemetery is scheduled to be constructed in June 2009 and a new fence along the State Highway 2 boundary of the public cemetery is scheduled for 2010/11.

That pre-purchase of plots for the Paeroa Cemetery is currently available and has been for the last two years.

Swimming Pools

That Council has noted the submitter’s request. Presently there are sunshades available adjacent to the pools and the lifeguards distribute sunscreen on request to swimmers. At this time Council is not planning to provide any more shade to the district swimming pools.

Sustainability, Climate Change and Changing Demographics Debate

That Council thank the submitter for her feedback on the Right Debate issues.

That Council has adopted Council’s recommended options and has formed a focus group called the ‘Right Debate Focus Group’. This group will further develop methods by which Council’s preferred options can be progressed.

Mr Graham Watton presented his submission to Council. He apologised for the non-attendance of the President who was unavailable to appear before the Council.

Mr Watton explained the building extension involved with regards to the Paeroa & District Museum. The society is presently conducting a feasibility study which is due by the end of June 2009 and then will get costings for the project. Mr Watton requested that Council take the building project into consideration for the 2011 budget.

Mr Watton thanked Council for their continued support and grants towards the museum. Mr Watton requested an increase in the 2009/10 grant to cover an expected increase in rates, insurance and electricity. Mr Watton explained that the museum is run by a team of volunteers and as one of the museum’s services, has been helping local residents and students with research on local history.

Mr Watton updated Council with regards to the history book that he is researching. He has requested funding for a further two years. Mr Watton has been unable to progress much in the last year due to ill health. Mr Watton read out some of the history he has researched as an example of his work.

RECOMMENDED

That the submitter be congratulated for their contribution to preserving the districts history and be advised as follows:

Funding for the Paeroa and District Museum Extension

That Council supports the project for the development of the museum and will include into its Hauraki Community Plan 2009-19 and that it invites the presentation of feasibility and funding proposal from the society within the next three years.

Grant for expenses

That Council approves funding of the $6,000 plus GST for 2009/10 (to be paid from the Paeroa Ward budget).

Funding for History Research Book

That Council approves a grant of $6,000 in 2009/10 (District $4,000 and Paeroa Ward $2,000) to Mr Watton to finish his book. It is suggested that any further funding for this project could be sourced from other means e.g. Creative NZ. The Council looks forward to seeing the published document.

Mr Whatarau presented the submission on behalf of the Waihi Community Baths Controlling Committee. Mr Whatarau provided supportive information to his written submission (doc # 487628) showing items that need to be fixed at the Waihi Community Swimming Pool and explained that the Waihi College is not getting any support from the Ministry of Education towards maintaining or upgrading the pool or its facilities.

Councillors discussed the provision of pool facilities in Waihi and agreed in principle that Waihi should have a pool delivering the same level of service and facilities as the other Ward pools in Ngatea and Paeroa. Issues regarding the ownership of the land (belonging to the Ministry of Education) will be investigated along with the future running of such a facility.

The Council was of the opinion that the practicality of this could be addressed in the next year as feasibility studies had already been carried out. Any arrangement would have to see the pool administered by the Council.

RECOMMENDED

That the submitter be advised that:

Council will undertake further investigations towards the possibility of taking over the management and running of the Waihi Community Pool.

The Council agrees in principle that the Waihi Community should have a pool offering similar levels of service and facilities as the other ward pools in Ngatea and Paeroa.

Staff be requested to undertake research including discussions with the Ministry of Education and the College and report back to Council on options for providing a pool in Waihi offering similar levels of service and facilities as the other ward pools in Ngatea and Paeroa.

RESOLVED

THAT the meeting of Friday 22 May be adjourned and reconvened on Monday 25 May 2009 at 9.00am.

09/200 Mayor/Carmine CARRIED

RESOLVED

THAT the Extraordinary meeting of Friday 22 May 2009 be reconvened.

RESOLVED

THAT the apology for absence of Cr C Francis be received and sustained.

09/202 Thorp/Shepherd CARRIED

Mr Verrall presented his submission on behalf of the Waihi Arts Centre and Museum. Mr Verrall requested funding from Council for the operating expenses (including inflation adjustment) for the next 10 years. Mr Verrall suggested that having Council’s commitment for this funding will allow the Waihi Arts and Museum committee to operate at a basic function.

Heat pumps have been installed in the museum to keep a consistent temperature which helps to preserve the artefacts in the museum. The committee has received grants from other sources for the restoration of some historic items. The museum also has a commercial enterprise of genealogy available to the public, at a cost. The centre and museum is currently run by volunteers and no longer has employed office staff.

Mr Verrall then signalled items on the committee’s agenda that it will be looking for support and funding from Council in the future. These items include:

Building storage areas for historic items.

Building toilet blocks.

The restoration of the pre-fab building which has heritage significance, being used as storage at the rear of the museum.

The committee has currently been loaned off-site storage, but will be looking for Council to support funding for storage requirements at a later date.

RECOMMENDED

That the submitter be advised as follows:

Funding for the Waihi Museum

The Ward currently funds $15,526 towards building services and resolved to make an annual grant of $12,420 towards their operational costs to June 2011. The draft estimates for 2009/19 propose a continuation of that level of support.

There is no surety of funding beyond that 3 year period unless a contract has been entered into with Council. The further 7 years of funding shown is indicative only.

Sustainability, Climate Change and Changing Demographics Debate

That Council thank the submitter for their feedback on the Right Debate issues.

That Council has adopted Council’s recommended options and has formed a focus group called the ‘Right Debate Focus Group’. This group will further develop methods by which Council’s preferred options can be progressed.

Mr Buckman presented his submission and provided supportive information (doc #487646) to the Elected Members.

Mr Buckman suggested that Council needs to ensure that there is adequate water storage facilities for when there is a water restriction e.g. droughts during summer, so that Council can draw on these supplies during times of shortage.

Mr Buckman would like to see any future building development in the Waihi area to be kept in line with the current ‘rural heritage style’. Mr Buckman feels Council has done well with the current layout and style of the new development within Waihi and Mr Buckman feels that any tall buildings would look out of place in the Waihi landscape.

Mr Buckman suggested that Council should be more involved with the walkway plans along the Ohinemuri River and suggested we take notice of the successful Otago Rail Trail as an example. Mr Buckman supports the idea of the cycling/walkway trail which would join the Thames-Coromandel, Matamata-Piako and Hauraki districts. He would like the trail to link to the Department of Conservations tracks which would enhance the experience of travelling through our unique district.

RECOMMENDED

That the submitter be advised as follows:

Storage for Waihi Water system

That Waihi has good provision for treated water storage. The reservoir capacity is equivalent to three days of supply at reasonably high outflows. The limitations of the current plant to treat high turbidity raw water will be addressed by the proposed plant upgrade. This will reduce the reliance on storage. The choice of alternative source has to satisfy current and future predicted demands without compromising the ecological flow requirements of that source.

Tourism in Hauraki

That Council is an active supporter of Tourism and works with The Hauraki Rail Trail, Waihi Walkways, The Paeroa Historic Maritime Park, Goldfields Railway etc all of which have Historic aspects. Council has recently supported the Waihi Arts Centre and Museum.

Streetscape

That Council would like to thank the submitter’s for his positive comments regarding the Waihi Streetscape. Funding to renew the main street plantings have been allowed for in the LTCCP. The matter of foot traffic on Bulltown Road and William Street will be examined by the Roading Asset Manager.

Sustainability, Climate Change and Changing Demographics Debate

That Council thank the submitter for his feedback on the Right Debate issues.

That Council has adopted Council’s recommended options and has formed a focus group called the ‘Right Debate Focus Group’. This group will further develop methods by which Council’s preferred options can be progressed.

Mr Adams presented his submission to Council and provided supporting information (doc #487720). Mrs Adams requested that there is a need for educational material, mainly targeted at the vehicle hire operators of campervans/caravans, regarding the responsibility of waste management for vehicles hired without full waste self containment facilities, while travelling around New Zealand.

Mr Adams also submitted some guidelines (which other Councils have adopted) which may help as a working solution towards the campervan community travelling through Hauraki district. Mr Adams suggested that Council allow free overnight parking at key tourist sites for certified self contained motor vehicles, and to provide suitable areas for non waste containment campervan to camp near public toilets. This would prevent these vehicles from overnight parking in reserves and roadsides.

Mr Adams requested that Council provide good signage indicating the location of Waste Dump Stations in the district to deter illegal dumping of waste which can endanger our environment. Mr Adams also requested that a Waste Dump Station be provided at Whiritoa.

Mr Adams also suggested that the dump station in Ngatea is difficult to use due to the high kerb and causes a problem while off-loading waste.

Mr Adams suggested to Council that there is an opportunity to capture more of the tourists’ dollar spent by encouraging the large community of NZ campervans to stay within Hauraki District by providing suitable amenities for this group.

RECOMMENDED

That the submitter be advised as follows:

Campervans

That Council’s Economic Development Officer will be requested to review the possible tourism opportunities with regards to encouraging Campervans (self contained and otherwise) into the Hauraki District.

That the matter of installing a Waste Dump Station for campervans at Whiritoa be referred to the Whiritoa Community to discuss.

That a brochure be prepared indicating the permitted overnight camping locations and Waste Dump Stations sites within the Hauraki District. These brochures are to be made available to the Information Centres within the Hauraki District.

That the Economic Development Officer review the need for additional signage in the towns indicating the location of the Waste Dump Station.

Mr Vanderstaak presented his submission to Council and provided supportive information in the form of an article from the Fish and Game magazine on access issues to waterways (doc #487893).

Mr Vanderstaak would like to know if council could provide some form of public information on paper roads with the district.

The Mayor advised Mr Vanderstaak that Council is aware of the problems related to paper road access which is causing problems for private land owners for those persons that wish to access waterways through their private land. Central Government is aware of the issue involved and are at present looking at the issues involved.

RECOMMENDED

That the submitter be advised that people can obtain a Land Information Memoranda (LIM) regarding a property: to see if the property adjoins or is crossed by an unformed public road, this fact is stated in the LIM and the road will show up on the planning map and GIS map supplied with the LIM. Marginal and other strips are not specifically mentioned unless they are zoned reserve, but they will show up on planning maps. If people do not obtain a LIM or otherwise enquire from Council before buying a property there is no mechanism to advise them of the legal status of adjoining strips and roads.

Chris Maddern, who runs a Commercial Cleaning business, presented her submission to Council. Chris takes all her rubbish to the transfer stations each morning and does not use the kerb side refuse collection service. Chris requested that she wants Council to credit on her rates for the services that she does not use.

Chris also explained to Council the negative effects on her business if Council reduces the public opening hours of the Paeroa Refuse Transfer Station. The submitter requested a key to the transfer station so she could off load the commercial waste during the morning hours while the station is closed. She notes that other commercial users also use the station each day in the morning and she does not have the facilities to store rubbish at home until the station opens.

RECOMMENDED

That the submitter be advised as follows:

Rates – Kerbside refuse collection service

That the refuse rate charge is based upon the availability of the service, not its use... It would be administratively inefficient to have to establish which ratepayers use the refuse collection/recycling service, and how often, and charge on that basis.

Paeroa Refuse Transfer Station opening hours

That Council is reconsidering the specific days of operation of the Paeroa Refuse Transfer station and the hours of operation of both transfer stations. The District Engineer will provide further information for consideration at the Council meeting on 10 June.

Mr Tegg presented his submission to Council using a power point presentation titled ‘An Introduction to Peak Oil’. Mr Tegg suggested that the peak oil and transportation issues are not only just an assumption, but there are facts to back the issues. Mr Tegg’s presentation focussed on what Peak Oil is, the economic impact of declining oil production, world oil discoveries, production and when the oil and gas resources will peak. The presentation also covered International Energy Agency (IEA) prediction of supply based on supply and demand, IEA, conventional and unconventional production forecasts, oil exporters that the west reply on for oil supply and New Zealand net oil and effects of oil depletions on our economy.

Mr Tegg feels that it would be a mistake to leave this issue to central government to deal with. Mr Tegg suggested Council should look at including in its 10 year plan to create oil-resilient transport networks, promote a sustainable fuel supply and plan for oil-resilient towns and cities for the future

RECOMMENDED

That the submitter be advised that his submission has been noted and Council will take into consideration the Peak Oil issues when relevant to decision-making.

Mr Swales presented his submission to Council. Mr Swales touched on a variety of subjects some of which were not presented in his written submission.

Mr Swales requested that the Library development does not proceed and believes that the majority of farmers or those that live out of the towns do not use the library services. Libraries should be a user-pays system, but he sees that it would be a flawed system and wouldn’t work.

Mr Swales has discussed the issues he raised relating to the reallocation of the way Uniform Annual General Charges and Target Rates are used with the Corporate Services Manager for clarification.

Mr Swales believes that good drainage is required on the Hauraki Plains. He is unsure how serious the issue of Land Drainage is and how Council should deal with it. Mr Swale believes that issues related to Climate Change should be ignored and feels that all the facts are not being presented He further believes that a ‘Dooms Day’ impression has been forced on the public. Mr Swales believes that developing a strategy to deal with Climate Change issues ratepayers will bear the brunt of the costs associated.

Mr Swales suggested that the local community is not being informed with regards to Land Drainage issues and suggested that Council should consult with the local people as they have an interest in land drainage discussions and have local knowledge which may help resolve some drainage issues.

RECOMMENDED

That the submitter be advised as follows:

Waihi Library Development

That Library usage, both in terms of visits and issues has increased considerably in the past two years. Council has included an extension to the Waihi Library in the 2008/09 Plan and this was supported by the Community. The Waihi Library is unable to adequately deliver on current levels of service in the existing building. The development is needed to provide a pleasant and functional environment for both library users and staff. A Strategic Plan for Library Services in Hauraki is to be presented to Council in June 2009 This will provide Council with sufficient information to either confirm or dispel the requirements to extend library facilities in Hauraki. Council offers an invitation to Mr Swales to visit one of the District’s Libraries.

Reallocation of the way Uniform Annual General Charges and Target Rates are used

That Council does not fund the activities identified in his submission by way of a Land Value rate. Those activities are funded by district wide Uniform Annual General Charges and ward targeted rates which is entirely consistent with the submitters wishes. Promotion of the District spans a number of activities and the majority of them have an element of targeted funding from Businesses.

Land Drainage District Meetings

That Drainage Committees are committees of Council and have regularly scheduled meetings throughout the year. Minutes of these meetings are reported to Council every month. All meetings are open to the public and any member of the public can request speaking time on issues of concern to them. Additional and site meetings can also be requested. Local Government structures, unlike Company's and Trust's, do not operate on a cycle of Annual Meetings.

Moira Cursey presented her submission on behalf of the Waikato Biodiversity Forum to Council. Ms Cursey thanked Council for the continued funding as detailed in the Draft Hauraki Community Plan 2009-19.

Ms Cursey encouraged Council to plant more native plants in the reserves and highlighted the need for the weeds and animal pests in Tarariki Reserve to be addressed. She requested that funding be considered for planting at the reserve.

Ms Cursey discussed sustainability improvements and thanked Council for its involvement in projects such as ‘Muddy Feet’ and the walkway and cycleway programs.

RECOMMENDED

That the submitter be advised as follows:

Environmental community grant fund

That Council has granted funding of $2000 from the conservation initiatives budget for tree planting at the Tarariki Reserve for a 3 year period.

Native vegetation in parks and reserves

That the submitter’s request has been noted. Council does plant native trees where appropriate and also includes tree varieties that attract birds to our parks & reserves.

Sustainability principles in Hauraki District Plan

That Council has noted the submitter’s comments. This submission will be referred to the District Plan Committee along with the outcomes to the Sustainability and Climate Change right debates for consideration as part of the current District Plan Review. Sustainability is incorporated throughout the District Plan and the schedule of natural areas of ecological significance will be reviewed again as part of the District Plan Review.

Council subdivision – public land

That Council has no plans to divest itself of public land per se, Council owned recreation and scenic reserves are included in that statement. Preservation of biodiversity will rely on many factors including affordability. The District Reserves Management Plan wherever special features or flora are known of; will take steps to preserve from further degradation.

District Plan protection for significant natural sites

That submitter’s comments have been noted. This submission will be referred to the District Plan Committee for its consideration during the current District Plan Review. An aerial survey of the district has been undertaken and the schedule of natural areas of ecological significance will be reviewed again as part of the District Plan Review.

Tarariki Reserve

That Tarariki reserve is owned by the Crown and vested to Council as a water catchment reserve. The bush in this reserve is noted as being original vegetation i.e. it has not been 'cut over'. Possum control is carried out by Department of Conservation and Environment Waikato and the weeds along the road utilised by Council are sprayed at present to keep the road clear for vehicles.

Biodiversity Forum

That Council has granted $3,000 per year in the Hauraki Community Plan 2009-19 for the next 3 years. Council appreciates that the Forum provides staff with advice on bio-diversity issues, information for outcome monitoring Council notes that the Forum is also establishing a formal process to assist Council with bio-diversity issues in its District Plan Review.

Muddy Fee

That Council plays a part in the Muddy Feet project along with other local authorities and community groups. This involvement has recently been reviewed and the intention is to continue to be represented on the project team.

Cycleways

That as part of the development of the Walking and Cycling strategy, public feedback will be sought through a consultative process. The draft strategy is to be considered by Council in June 2009 followed by the consultative process. This would be an appropriate time to consider this submission. It is therefore recommended that this submission is to be included in that consultation process. The strategy will address the Hauraki Rail Trail issue in a limited way by considering access to the Hauraki Rail Trail where it enters Paeroa. The Muddy Feet project is not considered in the Walking and Cycling Strategy. The New Zealand Transport Agency encourages a partnering role with the Hauraki Rail Trail Trust and funding could be a possibility if it could be shown that commuter cycling would be increased.

Sustainability and Climate Change Debate

That Council thank the submitter for their feedback on the Right Debate issues.

That Council has adopted Council’s recommended options and has formed a focus group called the ‘Right Debate Focus Group’. This group will further develop methods by which Council’s preferred options can be progressed.

Matthew Cooper and Julie Stephenson presented their submission to Council on behalf of Sport Waikato. Mr Cooper thanked Council for their continued support and funding to Sport Waikato. He also acknowledged the work undertaken by the co-ordinator.

Mr Cooper supports the Youth strategy which he suggests provides good forward thinking and Sport Waikato is happy to support ‘activity’ related projects, especially outdoor activities since Hauraki is situated in a unique area to tap into the walkways that are available. Sport Waikato is committed to Hauraki District and supports walkway and cycleway initiatives.

Elected Members acknowledged Sport Waikato and thanked Julie Stephenson (sport coordinator) for the outstanding work she has provided in the community.

RECOMMENDED

That the submitter be thanked for their supportive comments on the community initiatives, the Positive Ageing Strategy and Youth Strategy, That the submitter be advised as follows:

Karangahake Gorge Strategy

That Council thanks the submitter for their positive comment regarding the Karangahake Gorge Strategy. The Karangahake Gorge offers an enormous range of physical recreation opportunities and Council, the Department of Conservation and New Zealand Transport Agency are working together to achieve sound shared outcomes.

Funding for Sports Coordinator

That Council will fund the contract with Sport Waikato for a Hauraki coordinator at $72,000 (+CPI) for the foreseeable future.

Sustainability and Climate Change Debate

That Council thank the submitter for their feedback on the Right Debate issues.

That Council has adopted Council’s recommended options and has formed a focus group called the ‘Right Debate Focus Group’. This group will further develop methods by which Council’s preferred options can be progressed.

Mr Fowlds presented the submission on behalf of Environment Waikato. Mr Fowlds acknowledged Councils support on a number of issues. Mr Fowlds advised that the proposed boundary change with the Auckland Regional Council (as a result of the formation of the Auckland Council) will allow better management of the regions and districts.

The submitter supported Council’s involvement with the Hauraki Gulf Forum and suggested that Environment Waikato and Council need to work together on the Aquaculture initiatives.

Council was asked to re-consider its approach to the Sustainabiz and Enviroschools programmes.

Prior to making any recommendation Council asked for a verbal report on the Sustainabiz and Enviroschools programmes from its solid waste asset manager. This report was given.

A discussion was undertaken regarding the cost sharing of LIDAR and Council commented that it has been prepared to pay for its share from the start of the discussions. The submitters accepted that Council has been open to the cost share structure from the start and commented that it was other Councils that were holding up the process.

RECOMMENDED

That the submitter be advised as follows:

Hauraki Golf Forum

That Council thanks the submitter for their supportive comments and suggestions regarding the Hauraki Gulf Forum.

Aquaculture

That Council support Environment Waikato’s programme to develop an aquaculture strategy and Plan Change and will work with them to assist where possible.

Land Transport

That Council maintains active involvement with Environment Waikato in developing the various Regional Strategies. This currently happens through the Regional Transport Committee and various advisory groups.

Passenger Transport

That support of the Paeroa to Hamilton bus service will continue with additional funding of $12,000 being allocated from the Roading Programme to contribute towards the Hauraki Community van project.

Road Safety

That Hauraki District Council actively work with Environment Waikato in developing and maintaining Road Safety Action Plans, through participation in Road Safety Committees and other stake holder forums. The intention is to continue with and develop the relationship to serve the objectives of the Regional Road Safety Strategy.

Sustainabiz

That Council's has discontinued their financial support for the funding of Sustainabiz because the benefits to Council are seen to be less than for alternative waste minimisation projects.

Waikato and Bay of Plenty Waste Liaison Group

That Council intends to participate in the Waikato and Bay of Plenty Waste Liaison Group.

Enviroschools

That Council has approved budget of $26,000 to distribute between the Enviroschools project in conjunction with Environment Waikato and the Zero Waste campaign.

Boat Ramps

That Council, while it acknowledges ownership of the Turua and Puke Bridge jetties, does not have any ownership of any other boat ramps on the Waihou and Piako Rivers. Council is unaware of who built the boat ramps and does not accept ownership of the ramps.

LIDAR

That as part of the agreement for receiving the LIDAR a Memorandum of Understanding for the Cost share of the 2007/08 LIDAR data will be considered by Council in the near future. It is unclear to Council who will be collecting the rate payment and the cost share for the LIDAR survey, though this is still under discussion with Environment Waikato

Mr Gentil presented his submission on behalf of Go Waihi Incorporated.

Mr Gentil requested funding from council for the printing of the Heart of Gold brochures and the production and printing for replacement of Waihi Town flags. Mr Gentil plans to print 50,000 copies of the brochure which should last 2 years. Advertising for the brochure is being sought from the Waihi area and has at present 45 advertisers signed on (which is down on numbers from the last brochure). The brochure is to be distribution through ‘Jason’ maps outlets and other areas upon requests.

Mr Gentil also requested that Council erect a community notice board outside the Waihi Memorial Hall for events and happenings, that better signage for visitors should be provided to the visitor centre, public toilets and mining site locations in Waihi.

RECOMMENDED

That the submitter be advised as follows:

Go Waihi Funding

That funding has been approved of $85,693 for the 2009/10 year, plus an extra $5,000 to go towards the printing of the Heart of Gold brochures.

Waihi Streetscape

That direction signs have been allowed for in 2009/10 budget but nothing has been allowed for a community notice board. The notice board request will be referred to the Waihi Ward.

Service Level Agreement

That Council will be requiring organisations such as Go Waihi to enter into formal Service Level Agreements as part of future funding decisions.

Mr Mike Hayden presented his submission on behalf of the Hauraki Rail Trail Trust. The Trust requested that Council investigate the possibility of constructing a safe walking and cycling route along Rotokohu and Moananui Flats Road. The submitter also requested that Council encourage the NZ Transport Agency to assist in providing a safe alternative cycling route through the Karangahake Gorge, which the Trust suggest goes along the Rotokohu and Moananui Flats Road.

Councillor Hayden took no part in the discussion as a councillor. He only answered questions in relation to the submission from the Hauraki Rail Trail Trust. He also took no part in the discussion on the recommendation.

RECOMMENDED

That the submitter be advised that as part of the development of the Walking and Cycling Strategy, public feedback will be sought through a consultative process. It is programmed that the draft strategy is to be considered by Council in June 2009 followed by the consultative process. This would be an appropriate time to consider this submission. It is therefore recommended that this submission is included in that consultation process. The intention is to continue the partnership with Hauraki Rail Trail Trust throughout the development of the Walking and Cycling Strategy. As the Council develops the Walking and Cycling Strategy Hauraki Rail Trail Trust will have the opportunity to advocate for those matters outlined in their submission.

That Council add the Hauraki Rail Trail Trust, as being an organisation that can help Council attain the community outcomes, to page 60, 61 in the Hauraki Community Plan.

Mr Archibald presented his submission on behalf of Tourism Coromandel. Tourism Coromandel is seeking further marketing funding to a level where it can generate substantial sustainable returns on the investment. Mr Archibald explained that Tourism Coromandel has had a good year and that visitor figures are up even in comparison to other countries. It is finding that New Zealanders are holidaying more within New Zealand due to the economic climate. Some Hauraki businesses have reported that business is up by 17%. The Government has recently committed to marketing tourism in New Zealand to Australia ($3 million budget).

Tourism Coromandel is working on a business plan for the next three years which will focus on sustainability, national integrity, product and infrastructure development and capability development. Tourism Coromandel will also be looking at initiatives for new events in the region which will have a positive effect on the economy.. Tourism Coromandel’s website has been rated well against other worldwide tourism organisations.

RECOMMENDED

That the submitter be advised as follows:

Visitor Industry

That Council agree with Tourism Coromandel that the benefits from tourism for the Hauraki District will grow with Waihi, the Karangahake Gorge and the events of Paeroa leading the way.

Tourism Coromandel operations and effectiveness

That Council has signalled that a review of town promotion organisations will occur in the next few years as detailed in the Hauraki Community Plan 2009-19. The submitters comments regarding the Campbell Report has been noted by Council.

Tourism Coromandel market funding

That due to regular requests for increased funding from Tourism Coromandel an independent review was undertaken in 2008. While the review confirmed that the performance of Tourism Coromandel was outstanding given the level of funding, it was recommended that further funding only be provided if a sound business case was presented.

The Council was of the opinion that the submission did not present a sound business case for further funding. Council will require a full business plan before any additional funding to Tourism Coromandel can be considered.

RESOLVED

THAT the Extraordinary meeting of Monday 25 May 2009 be reconvened.

09/203 Bubb/Carmine CARRIED

RESOLVED

THAT the apology of Crs T J Meyers and B A Gordon be received and sustained.

09/204 Thorp/Milner CARRIED

The Plains Ward has made a provision of $10,125 for the 2009/10 year which falls short of the submitter request for funds of $10,230 GST excl. It was recommended to Council that it increase the current budget allowed to an extra $115 to meet the submitters request.

RECOMMENDED

That the submitter be advised that funding has been approved from the Plains Ward for $10,230 (excl GST).

And that Council acknowledges and thanks those persons who volunteer their time in running Positively Promoting the Plains.

At the time that the LTCCP budget was compiled Council had not received a request from the Waihi Information Centre for funding for the 2009/10 year. The Waihi Ward therefore provided $39,991, the amount that it had provided for in the 2008/09 year. The total increase requested by the submitter is $1,613 or 4% above last years funding. A grant of $1,500 for new computer equipment has also been requested. The total estimated operating expenditure for the 2009/10 year is $64,400 (excluding capital expenditure). The funding requested represents 65% of this amount with the rest being funded by way of income from sales. If Council approves the submitters request then additional funding in the 2009/10 year of $3,113 will have to be provided.

RECOMMENDED

That the submitter be advised the Council has approved funding of $43,104 for the 2009/10 year.

In order to give Council the mandate to work effectively with young people to ensure they are making a positive contribution to the Hauraki community, the submitter requested that the youth goal "that all young people under the age of 25 should be engaged in appropriate education, training, work or other options, which will lead to long-term economic independence and well being" be included in the Hauraki Community Plan 2009-19. The Mayors contribution to the Forum is acknowledged and some on-going programmes are suggested within the submission.

RECOMMENDED

That the submitter be advised that Council's current policy objectives are orientated towards engaging youth and encouraging them to assist in Councils decision making responsibilities relating to youth matters. The Draft Hauraki Community Plan included commentary consistent with Council’s Youth Policy. Council has already been involved in some of the programmes suggested by the submitter. The submitter’s suggestions will be held over until the Youth Policy and possibly the Better Futures Hauraki initiatives are reviewed in 2010, to enable further progression of current policy objectives.

The submitter requested that Council consider putting handrails in the centre of the steps leading up to the Pumphouse in Waihi.

RECOMMENDED

That the submitter be advised that the submitter’s request for a handrail to be placed in the centre of the steps leading up to the Waihi Pumphouse has been referred to the Waihi Ward for consideration.

The submitter would like to see Council fencing off all rural waterways in order to protect them and planting native bush in order to conserve water and the construction of walking tracks.

RECOMMENDED

That the submitter be advised that her submission and comments would be better referred to Environment Waikato for consideration. Environment Waikato role does include the fencing of some waterways for critical matters of safety and keeping animal stock out of the waterways. Hauraki District Council is involved in some riparian planting programmes on a limited scale. Council would like to thank the submitter for their comments and concerns for the continuing effort to help improve our waterways.

The submitter would like the toilets in Paeroa Domain to be left open 24 hours a day.

RECOMMENDED

That the submitter be advised that Council has decided that the Paeroa Domain Toilets will remain open 24 hours per day.

The submitter would like the toilets in Paeroa Domain to be left open 24 hours a day.

RECOMMENDED

That the submitter be advised that Council has decided that the Paeroa Domain Toilets will remain open 24 hours per day.

The submitter would like the toilets in Paeroa Domain to be left open 24 hours a day.

RECOMMENDED

That the submitter be advised that Council has decided that the Paeroa Domain Toilets will remain open 24 hours per day.

RECOMMENDED

That the submitter be advised as follows:

Paeroa Domain Public Toilets

That Council has decided that the Paeroa Domain Toilets will remain open 24 hours per day.

Paeroa Footpaths

And that temporary improvement to the footpath area outside the Paeroa National Bank has been actioned since the submission has been received. Permanent upgrading is planned to be carried out within the next two months. Reconstruction of part of Mackay Street is planned with a draft design currently being prepared. The reconstruction is concurrent with the final stage of Paeroa Streetscape work.

RECOMMENDED

That the submitter be advised as follows:

Whiritoa Rates

That rates for Whiritoa and all other areas within the District are funding a mix of activities. Some of these activities are local, some are within the Ward and others are across the entire District. Council has conducted an extensive review of its funding as part of the LTCCP process and has taken a lot of care to ensure funding is as equitable as possible by assessing the benefits and if those are individual, community, ward or district based and applying tools to address that benefit as equitably as possible. The use of value based rates is low which minimises the issue of cross subsidisation. There is in excess of $1.7 million of capital expenditure proposed in Whiritoa on wastewater over the ten year period.

Sustainability, Climate Change & Changing Demographic Debates

And that Council thank the submitter for her feedback on the Right Debate issues.

And that Council has adopted Council’s recommended options and has formed a focus group called the ‘Right Debate Focus Group’. This group will further develop methods by which Council’s preferred options can be progressed.

RECOMMENDED

That the submitter be advised as follows:

Sustainability, Climate Change & Changing Demographic Debates

That Council thank the submitter for her feedback on the Right Debate issues.

That Council has adopted Council’s recommended options and has formed a focus group called the ‘Right Debate Focus Group’. This group will further develop methods by which Council’s preferred options can be progressed.

That to date the sustainability of farming has been a priority of Council and is envisaged to continue to be a priority in the future. The climate change impacts on the Hauraki Plains have been considered and design specifications for land drainage and future developments have been amended accordingly. In the future it is likely that stop banks may need to be heightened however the prospect of this issue will not be during the life of the Hauraki Community Plan 2009-19.

Waihi Cemetery

And that Council is currently planting a hedge barrier along the new Beach Road boundary beside the cemetery. The location of the new ashes garden is yet to be determined.

RECOMMENDED

That the submitter be advised as follows:

Waihi Rocket Park

That the submitters requests for a safety fence to be installed in Rocket Park alongside of Kenny Street will be referred to the Waihi Ward committee for consideration.

Waihi Footpaths

That the Waihi Ward Committee approved $5,000 for the footpath upgrade outside 13 Haszard Street in May 2005, subject to the adjacent property owner upgrading the facade of the building to a centre town business premises standard. No specific provision has been made for this work within the Waihi Ward unsubsidised road work budget.

Sustainability & Changing Demographic Debates

That Council thank the submitter for his feedback on the Right Debate issues.

And that Council has adopted Council’s recommended options and has formed a focus group called the ‘Right Debate Focus Group’. This group will further develop methods by which Council’s preferred options can be progressed.

RECOMMENDED

That the submitter be advised as follows:

Sustainability, Climate Change & Changing Demographic Debates

That Council thank the submitter for his feedback on the Right Debate issues.

And that Council has adopted Council’s recommended options and has formed a focus group called the ‘Right Debate Focus Group’. This group will further develop methods by which Council’s preferred options can be progressed.

Paeroa Domain Public Toilets

That Council has decided that the Paeroa Domain Toilets will remain open 24 hours per day.

Kerbside Recycling

That those Hauraki ratepayers and residents that took part in Council’s triennial surveys showed that in 2004 77% of respondents said they believed that Council should be more involved with recycling initiatives and in the 2007 survey this figure increased to 88%. Kerbside recycling has made it easier for residents to separate recyclables from the waste stream, resulting in a marked decrease in the volume of recyclables disposed of to landfill since the collection commenced. This supports the main focus of the Waste Minimisation Act 2008, the reduction of waste going to landfill.

Council subdivision development

That Council has for many years been involved with subdivision development to primarily grow the respective communities and to make a moderate financial gain. The potential to achieve both objectives is evaluated before commitment is made. It is most likely Council will continue to develop where a need and opportunity to achieve the above objectives exists. Council has only been a developer of last resort when a need has arisen and no developer has wished to undertake a development. It has also meant that the developed lots have been available at very realistic prices.

Walking and Cycling Strategy

That the Walking & Cycling strategy focus which is on urban routes and projects will have to be justified in terms of a benefit cost ratio. Involvement in a proposed coastal walkway is a decision for Council but the project is not currently within the scope of the Walking and Cycling Strategy. As part of the development of the Walking and Cycling Strategy, public feedback will be sought through a consultative process. It is programmed that the draft strategy is to be considered by Council in June 2009 followed by the consultative process. This would be an appropriate time to consider this submission. It was therefore recommended that this submission is included in that consultation process.

Paeroa Town Entrance

That although the plans for Paeroa entranceways have not been developed, they will be suitable and attractive. The liquor ban signage was purposely designed so that it was not intrusive or a target for vandalism but meets the statutory requirements for signs of this nature.

Waihi Discovering Centre

That Council's contributions to this project have primarily been to the Discovery Centre (which received $1.8million of Central Government Funding) and the Information Centre fit out and development. Council has recognised that Information Centres will need a degree of public funding to operate.

Pensioner Housing

That pensioner housing is identified as a strategic asset in Council's Significance policy and the Local Government Act, 2002 has restrictions placed on the disposal of pensioner housing. Council currently has no plans to divest itself of Pensioner flats or to increase the number of flats. Refurbishment of the existing flats is undertaken as vacancies allow. It is acknowledged that the majority of the units are getting older and quality of amenity is limited.

Policy Development in General

That Council and staff do not agree with the submitter that the 2002 Local Government Act is wrong. It is agreed however that the new Act does allow Council to be become involved in areas outside what has been seen as core business. This is particularly true with the power of general competence and the Community Outcomes focus, however, the Act is clear that it is up to local decision-makers to decide the extent to which it is involved in any activity. Rate levels have been considered by Council as part of the draft LTCCP considerations.

Relative Rate Charges

That Council is mindful of the submitters concerns when it sets it expenditure programme for the years ahead and the funding that must support that. Smaller communities lack the population numbers to spread the funding across. As a consequence delivery of some services with high fixed cost components can be more expensive to deliver to smaller communities than larger communities with greater population.

Evaluation of Council and staff

That Council management has undertaken a review of the Community Services and Planning and Environmental Services Teams within the term of the 2006-16 LTCCP using independent consultants. No further external reviews are proposed. Additional accommodation considerations will involve independent advice. Council and the Chief Executive have an active policy of reviewing staff levels and best practice approaches but local government is always vulnerable to the imposition of new responsibilities.

RECOMMENDED

That the submitter be advised as follows:

Sustainability, Climate Change & Changing Demographic Debates

That Council thank the submitter for his feedback on the Right Debate issues.

And that Council has adopted Council’s recommended options and has formed a focus group called the ‘Right Debate Focus Group’. This group will further develop methods by which Council’s preferred options can be progressed.

Paeroa Town Centre and L&P Bottle

That the development of Ohinemuri Park and the Paeroa town centre was undertaken in accordance with the community’s public consultation process.

RECOMMENDED

That the submitter be advised that Council agrees with their submission, in terms of a suitable sustainable planning period, but believe this can only be achieved as a developmental process. The Council has started by defining "sustainability" in the draft LTCCP, suggesting three alternative approaches and sought feedback.

That Council has adopted its recommended options and has formed a focus group called the ‘Right Debate Focus Group’. This group will further develop methods by which Council’s preferred policy stances can be progressed.

And that in the future Council may choose to look into a longer term view of strategic planning, and therefore the submitter’s suggestion of a 50 year plan could be valid. This would only happen once Council has fully determined public attitudes to meeting the on-going costs of sustainability programmes.

The submitter could not attend the hearing to speak in support of their submission. Item was tabled at the meeting as further supporting information to the submission (doc #487625)

RECOMMENDED

THAT the submitter be advised as follows:

Catering for the disabled and elderly

That Council ensures compliance with the Building Act when upgrading or constructing new buildings. Should buildings or alterations relating specifically to the elderly be undertaken; consideration to their needs for ease of accessibility and use will be made. In the District Plan Review consideration of good urban design principles will be made within the urban growth areas. E.g. walkways for good connectivity.

Access and use of facilities for the disabled and elderly

That the submitter’s request for Council to ensure access to all public facilities be accessible for those with disabilities and also the elderly be noted. These features are considered when constructing new facilities.

Transportation and access for the disabled and elderly

That the submitter’s points made in the submission are accepted. Council intends to actively progress the collaborative relationship by, amongst other means, consulting with CCS during the finalisation of Council's Walking and Cycling strategy.

Lifemark principles for Pensioner Housing

That should Council construct new accommodation for the elderly, it will take into account the needs of all. The age of the Council's Housing for the Elderly stock is high, the youngest being 1984 vintage. When refurbishment of these flats occurs there is limited opportunity to include the features behind the principles of Lifemark, however where opportunity to do so presents itself through a number of considerations, affordability being one, this treatment will be included. Council will further discuss Lifemark principles at a later date.

Parks and Reserves community assets

That whenever new construction is undertaken in district parks and reserves, disability amenity will be provided for where practicable. However, there will be sites that may not have 'barrier free' access and staff will assess this when visiting parks and reserves during the normal course of inspections.

RECOMMENDED

That the submitter be advised as follows:

Sustainability, Climate Change & Changing Demographic Debates

That Council thanks the submitter for his feedback on the Right Debate issues.

And that Council has adopted Council’s recommended options and has formed a focus group called the ‘Right Debate Focus Group’. This group will further develop methods by which Council’s preferred options can be progressed.

Heritage and landscape

That the issues of identifying burial sites within Hauraki are mainly a concern to Iwi, but at this stage no allowance has been made in the Hauraki Community Plan to research, identify and gazette burial sites as reserves and to fence these areas off. If Council were to support this type of proposal the first step would be to consult with Iwi groups to gauge an interest and resources that could be made available. There is a possibility that those properties that were gazetted could appear in the Operative District Plan with gazettal references.

That this submission has been referred to the District Plan Committee for the District Plan Review.

Planting native vegetation on the Hauraki Plains

That Council has provided some budget for the planting of natives in a number of specific sites in the Hauraki District.

Maori Place Names

Council has not budgeted for an investigation of and renaming of roads, streets and natural features utilising the original Maori land block or tupuna names in the Hauraki Community Plan 2009-19. Council will consider any formal proposal it receives.

RECOMMENDED

That the submitter be advised as follows:

Community Outcomes

That community outcomes can only be determined through the process laid out in the Local Government Act. In Hauraki’s case Council has resolved that the community outcomes identification process is carried out every 6 years in order to provide the community with some stability of direction. Historic heritage was not identified as a community priority in 2006. The next identification process will take place in 2011 in time for the adoption of Council’s 2012 Long Term Plan, at which point this submission will be considered by Council, along with other input from the community through the extensive consultation process.

Historic Heritage

That this is an issue currently being developed through the District Plan Review. It is a matter of national importance and Councils District Plan already incorporates this in it. The Plan's schedule of protected items of heritage and archaeological sites will be reviewed again as part of the District Plan Review.

And that it was recommended that this submission will be referred to the District Plan Committee for further consideration.

RECOMMENDED

That the submitter be advised as follows:

Water Rates

That Council understands the submitter would prefer to not pay more for their water than they currently pay. Council is required to consider the fairness and equity of funding of all activities. When considering the funding of water Council became concerned at the amount high volume consumers were paying relative to low volume consumers given 89% of revenue for water comes from volume based charging. Water supply costs are largely fixed. Even treatment costs have a high fixed cost component, i.e. the costs are the same or similar irrespective of how much water is produced or consumed. It can be argued that charging for the fixed costs on a per cubic metre basis is inequitable. It can also be argued that there is wider community benefit to charging on a volume consumed basis as it reduces demand and as a result is environmentally friendly and more sustainable.

Currently there is cross subsidisation from high volume users to low volume users. The proposal is attempting to reduce, not eliminate that cross subsidisation. Council considers that high volume users still pay a significant amount for their water so the environmental benefits are not diluted. However a correction is considered necessary to shift the level of the cross subsidisation back form the current level. While it is undesirable to increase the charge to a portion of the community it is equally undesirable to have another portion of the community paying more than it should be. That period of change or transition can be painful but doing nothing is also if not equally painful.

RECOMMENDED

That the submitter be advised as follows:

Waihi Community Pool

That Council will undertake further investigations towards the possibility of taking over the management and running of the Waihi Community Pool.

That Council agrees in principle that the Waihi Community should have a pool offering similar levels of service and facilities as the other ward pools in Ngatea and Paeroa.

And that Staff have been requested to undertake research including discussions with the Ministry of Education and the College and report back to Council on options for providing a pool in Waihi offering similar levels of service and facilities as the other ward pools in Ngatea and Paeroa.

RECOMMENDED

That the submitter be advised as follows:

Paeroa Skateboard Park

That Council has previously indicated that an improved skate park is still a priority for youth. There have been numerous approaches to Council to upgrade this facility over a period of time. Council has adopted its proposal to construct an upgraded skateboard park in Paeroa in 2009/10.

Sustainability, Climate Change & Changing Demographic Debates

That Council thank the submitter for their feedback on the Right Debate issues.

That Council has adopted Council’s recommended options and has formed a focus group called the ‘Right Debate Focus Group’. This group will further develop methods by which Council’s preferred options can be progressed.

RECOMMENDED

That the submitter be advised as follows:

Waihi Community Pool

That Council will undertake further investigations towards the possibility of taking over the management and running of the Waihi Community Pool.

That Council agrees in principle that the Waihi Community should have a pool offering similar levels of service and facilities as the other ward pools in Ngatea and Paeroa.

That staff have been requested to undertake research including discussions with the Ministry of Education and the College and report back to Council on options for providing a pool in Waihi offering similar levels of service and facilities as the other ward pools in Ngatea and Paeroa.

Sustainability, Climate Change & Changing Demographic Debates

That Council thank the submitter for their feedback on the Right Debate issues.

And that Council has adopted Council’s recommended options and has formed a focus group called the ‘Right Debate Focus Group’. This group will further develop methods by which Council’s preferred options can be progressed.

RECOMMENDED

That the submitter be advised as follows:

Proposed Kerepehi Refuse Collection

That Council intends to survey ratepayers in Kerepehi to determine the level of support for a proposed refuse collection service in the Kerepehi area. The result of the survey will be passed to Council for consideration.

Sustainability, Climate Change & Changing Demographic Debates

That Council thank the submitter for their feedback on the Right Debate issues.

That Council has adopted Council’s recommended options and has formed a focus group called the ‘Right Debate Focus Group’. This group will further develop methods by which Council’s preferred options can be progressed.

RECOMMENDED

That the submitter be advised as follows:

Wall of Memories in Ngatea

That this submission has been forwarded to the Plains Ward Committee who will consider the proposal of a Memorial Wall to be built in Ngatea which will allow the internment of ashes into the wall.

RECOMMENDED

That the submitter be advised as follows:

Council Services and Elected Members

That the submitter’s comments have been noted. Council do not agree that the 2002 Local Government Act is wrong. It is agreed however that the new Act does allow Council to be become involved in areas outside what has previously been seen as core business. This is particularly true with the power of general competence and the Outcomes focus. However the Act is clear that it is up to local decision-makers to decide the extent to which it is involved in any activity. The comment that decisions are made without knowing the views of the community are a surprise. Council has an extended consultation programme, which is makes extensive use of through the media and has opened a number of new feedback mechanisms.

Sustainability, Climate Change & Changing Demographic Debates

That Council thank the submitter for his feedback on the Right Debate issues.

And that Council has adopted Council’s recommended options and has formed a focus group called the ‘Right Debate Focus Group’. This group will further develop methods by which Council’s preferred options can be progressed.

RECOMMENDED

That the submitter be advised as follows:

Water Rates

That Council understands the submitter would prefer to not pay more for their water than they currently pay. Council is required to consider the fairness and equity of funding of all activities. When considering the funding of water Council became concerned at the amount high volume consumers were paying relative to low volume consumers given 89% of revenue for water comes from volume based charging. Water supply costs are largely fixed. Even treatment costs have a high fixed cost component, i.e. the costs are the same or similar irrespective of how much water is produced or consumed. It can be argued that charging for the fixed costs on a per cubic metre basis is inequitable. It can also be argued that there is wider community benefit to charging on a volume consumed basis as it reduces demand and as a result is environmentally friendly and more sustainable.

Currently there is cross subsidisation from high volume users to low volume users. The proposal is attempting to reduce, not eliminate that cross subsidisation. Council considers that high volume users still pay a significant amount for their water so the environmental benefits are not diluted. However a correction is considered necessary to shift the level of the cross subsidisation back form the current level. While it is undesirable to increase the charge to a portion of the community it is equally undesirable to have another portion of the community paying more than it should be. That period of change or transition can be painful but doing nothing is also if not equally painful.

RECOMMENDED

That the submitter be advised as follows:

Councillor expenditure

That the Long Term Council Community Plan (LTCCP) identifies the projects that are being considered by Council and the Special Consultative Procedure allows for and seeks feedback from the community on the plan. The Policy on Significance provides a mechanism that requires projects not included in the LTCCP but which are deemed by Council to be significant to go through the Special Consultative Procedure which ensures that the community is aware of the project and that they have the opportunity for their views to be heard.

And that Council does not agree with the submitter’s view that Councillors "think the money Council has is a bottomless pit".

Rubbish collection on side roads

That local roads are serviced by Council's maintenance contractor to performance standards that the contractor must achieve to avoid penalties. Council is able to advocate with New Zealand Transport Agency for improved litter control on the state highway network. Public awareness of the problem can be raised by a newspaper education campaign.

Sustainability, Climate Change & Changing Demographic Debates

That Council thank the submitter for his feedback on the Right Debate issues.

And that Council has adopted Council’s recommended options and has formed a focus group called the ‘Right Debate Focus Group’. This group will further develop methods by which Council’s preferred options can be progressed.

RECOMMENDED

That the submitter be advised as follows:

Walking and Cycling and mobility impaired paths

That as part of the development of the Walking and Cycling strategy, public feedback will be sought through a consultative process. It is programmed that the draft strategy is to be considered by Council in June 2009 followed by the consultative process. Council will therefore consider this submission as part of that consultation process.

RECOMMENDED

That the submitter be advised as follows:

Indication of upcoming funding request

That Council thanks the submitter for their submission and congratulates them on being selected to host the English Sporting Clay Target World Championship in February 2011.

And that Council will indicate within the Hauraki Community Plan 2009-19 that they are aware of the event and that the Thames Valley Deerstalkers Association will be seeking financial and in-kind assistance for the local hosting of the event.

And that Council has indicated that it would be willing to facilitate some issues with running such an event and assist with others if the appropriate opportunity arises.

Sealing of Morrison Road, Paeroa

That Council’s Roading Engineer will investigate the road usage of Morrison Road and recommend improvements to the road if necessary for Councils consideration.

RECOMMENDED

That the submitter be advised as follows:

Request to rezone land

That the submitters request to rezone their land at Waikino is specific to the District Plan Review and not the Hauraki Community Plan. The submission will be passed onto the District Plan Committee for consideration as a review of the District Plan.

Sustainability, Climate Change & Changing Demographic Debates

That Council thank the submitter for their feedback on the Right Debate issues.

And that Council has adopted its recommended options and has formed a focus group called the ‘Right Debate Focus Group’. This group will further develop methods by which Council’s preferred options can be progressed.

RECOMMENDED

That the submitter be advised as follows:

Waihi Social Development Group

That Council acknowledges the submitter and will include within the Hauraki Community Plan 2009-19 recognition of the Waihi Social Development Group as an organisation that is a key contributor in supporting and working towards achieving community outcomes.

Waihi Social Service Village

And that support in principle for the proposal will be included in the Future Strategic Directions section of the Hauraki Community Plan 2009-19 with regards to the Waihi Social Service Village.

RECOMMENDED

That the submitter be thanked for its supportive comments of the draft Hauraki Community Plan and be advised as follows:

Building fees

That building fees have been increased for the last four years. Council is constrained in that it can only recover actual and reasonable costs incurred. A portion of Council's building consent costs relate to general advice and customer enquiries, these are not recovered as they are the public good component of this activity.

Animal Control Services

That the animal control services consists of dog registration costs of $215,000 and Animal Control (which is wandering dogs and stock, etc) costs of $161,000.

And that dog registration is an activity that Council is required by legislation to undertake, it is fully funded by registration charges. The wandering dogs/stock part of animal control is primarily rate funded.

And that Council shares the submitters concern regarding funding of wandering stock. Stock control costs Council around $22,000 annually and Council seeks to recover costs associated with impounding or wandering animals as much as it can, however there is a significant component of this cost that is difficult to recover from owners where they are unable to be identified.

Wastewater Rates

That wastewater is fully funded by targeted wastewater rates. Only properties that are connected, or are connectable, to Council's wastewater reticulation pay towards the wastewater activity.

Sustainability & Climate Change Debates

That Council thank the submitter for their feedback on the Right Debate issues.

And that Council has adopted its recommended options and has formed a focus group called the ‘Right Debate Focus Group’. This group will further develop methods by which Council’s preferred options can be progressed.

RECOMMENDED

That the submitter be advised as follows:

Tauranga Harbour and Waihi River catchments joint initiative

That Council and staff were unaware of any specific project on this initiative and consultation will need to be initiated among the authorities involved to determine the level of support.

And that this project would fit well with Councils emphasis on sustainability and work with the community, and Councils initial reaction would be that it could support such a scheme but would need to assess the details first..

Karangahake Gorge

That work is currently being undertaken with the submitter and the New Zealand Transport Agency to look at the Karangahake Gorge issues. Council will continue to work with both of these agencies to develop the Karangahake Gorge for the best interests of the District and the country.

Walkways

That Council has embarked on a collaborative project in the Karangahake Gorge with Department of Conservation and other stakeholders. However in recent time there has not been joint projects in other sites except where road was converted into Forest park at Dickey Flat. Council would welcome for consideration, suggestions where it could work in partnership with Department of Conservation to provide benefit for Hauraki residents.

Hauraki Rail Trail

That Council currently supports the Paeroa /Karangahake section of the Walkway project in accordance with the Memorandum of Understanding. An amendment such as that requested would be in keeping with Council's support. However in light of the interest by Central Government in cycle ways Council may consider expanding the scope of the support.

RECOMMENDED

That the submitter be advised as follows:

General comments on Council, staff and policies

That the submitter’s comments are noted but feedback from the triennial customer survey and the service level review carried out in 2008 would indicate an acceptable degree of satisfaction by the community in the Councils activities and services. Council has a robust process of developing policies using workshops where the Councillors debate and develop their policies. Policies are only implemented or put out for consultation after approval by Council.

Community Plan document

That , the submitter’s comments have been noted, however feedback received from the Audit Office and from the public consultation does not support the submitter’s view. The length of the document is essentially driven by legislative requirements. The Summary is, in the opinion of Council and staff, a very user friendly and easily understood document. In addition and in response to the public meetings comment; public meetings have taken place, both directly to community groups and the general public in each Ward.

Council priorities

That 65% of Council's operating expenditure is on network services which are the core services listed in the submission plus land drainage. Those core services listed do not include the many other services Council is statutorily required to provide such as elected members, Building Control, Resource Management Planning, Strategic Planning, Dog and Animal Control etc.

And that in regards to North Road, staff have advised Council that the road is routinely inspected by Council’s network management contractor and consultant on a monthly basis with additional inspections added when weather conditions or special events demand extra attention.

And that a special inspection was undertaken on 13/5/2009 as result of this submission to confirm that the road condition was not unsafe. Council acknowledge that with unsealed roads this condition can change quickly and the contractor/consultant check problematic areas like North Road after weather events.

Rates for rural properties

That Council has conducted an extensive review of its funding as part of the LTCCP process and has taken a lot of care to ensure funding is as equitable as possible by assessing the benefits and if those are individual, community, ward or district based and applying tools to address that as equitably as possible. The use of value based rates is low which minimises the issue of cross subsidisation. Water, Wastewater and Refuse collection are fully funded by targeted rates. Council allocates costs to each activity to avoid cross-subsidisation of activities. Current economic conditions and the need for belt-tightening were given strong consideration during the estimates process. Significant reductions were made to expenditure budgets.

Planning and Regulatory Services

That the issues the submitter had with the processing of his subdivision application related to a roading contribution issue which involved a number of technical matters was addressed at the Hearings Committee hearing. Council acknowledges that the processing of the submitter’s application took too long and apologises for any inconvenience caused.

Governance

That Councillors are responsible for monitoring the overall performance of the Council. In terms of the monitoring of the performance of staff the Councillors are responsible for managing the performance of the Chief Executive and the Chief Executive is responsible for managing the performance of all other staff. The Council has a performance management system for monitoring performance of staff and there are consequences for poor performance.

Sustainability, Climate Change & Changing Demographic Debates

That Council thank the submitter for his feedback on the Right Debate issues.

And that Council has adopted its recommended options and has formed a focus group called the ‘Right Debate Focus Group’. This group will further develop methods by which Council’s preferred options can be progressed.

RECOMMENDED

That the submitter advised of as follows:

Asset Management Planning

That the current Roading Asset Management Plan will be sent to New Zealand Transport Agency and updated copies provided after each annual review.

Integrated planning

That where appropriate Council and the New Zealand Transport Agency will work together and use an integrated planning approach.

Affordability and capital work programme

That Council will take into account affordability versus a reliable and responsive transport system.

District Plan Review

That Council will give effect to the Regional Policy Statement of the Waikato regional during the District Plan review.

Land Transport

That Council will amend the section on page 176 of the Hauraki Community Plan 2009-19 to account for the Regional Council influence on the 3 year Land Transport Programme development and prioritisation.

Road Maintenance

That Council will continue to monitor the roading network.

Development Contributions Policy

That Council believes it would probably not be possible to include the topics such as passenger transport and walking and cycling facilities into the development contributions policy as a result of the North Shore ruling on public transport. Only actual costs of providing spare capacity can be levied and then only where the purchaser of a property actually uses any spare capacity. In cases of public transport and walking/cycling facilities there is no certainty a purchaser will use any capacity.

Plan consistency

And that Council notes the submitter’s comment with regards to ensuring consistency between the Hauraki Community Plan and information shared with the New Zealand Transport Agency.

RECOMMENDED

That the submitter advised of as follows:

Roading - Social deprivation

That Council has addressed the issues of public transport on a number of occasions. There are a number of organisations within the District who are funded to transport people to larger centres such as Hamilton for healthcare services. It became obvious to Council during the Community Outcomes consultation in 2005 that there was little or no collaboration between these providers and many at risk people where not included. Council fully supports further expansion of the EW transport programme into the Hauraki District that targets communities and people at risk and those who are not part of a currently funded transport service.

And that Council has approved $12,000 in its Plan to assist the Hauraki/Coromandel community van project, in conjunction with EW and the WDHB.

Positive Ageing Strategy

That the Positive Ageing Strategy is due for review in 2010 and that the submitter’s recommendations are noted.

Family Violence Intervention

That the submitter’s comments have been noted and Council acknowledges that Waikato District Health Board’s Population Health Team are active with the "Better Future Hauraki" forum.

Affordable housing

That an Affordable Housing discussion paper will be prepared by Council in 2009/10 after the publication of the Hauraki Community Plan 2009-19. This work has been programmed in response to the new legislation, and will be considered in due course.

Liquor Ban

That the submitter’s comments and support for Council’s approach to the Liquor Ban has been noted and is appreciated.

Drinking Water standards

That Council acknowledges the submitter’s comment with regards to the implementation of the Drinking Water Standards which have been set by legislation.

And that with its current programme and the very high costs associated with capital works for water supplies Council is unable to comply fully with the Drinking Water Standards as set down by legislation.

Health Risk Management Plans

That the plans are on track to be completed in the 2009 calendar year.

Water fluoridation

That the addition of fluoride to the drinking water is a contentious issue, and that alternative methods of taking fluoride are available to those individuals who choose to do so.

Walking and Cycling

That as part of the development of the Walking and Cycling Strategy, public feedback will be sought through a consultative process. It is programmed that the draft strategy is to be considered by Council in June 2009 followed by the consultative process.

Youth Strategy

That the submitter’s comment and support of the Youth Policy has been noted.

Collaboration

That Council thanks the submitter for their appreciative comments with regards to working collaboratively with Council.

RECOMMENDED

That the submitter advised of as follows:

Funding for Enviroschools

That Council has budgeted $26,000 in total which will go towards supporting the Enviroschools and Zero Waste Education programs. These programmes involve teaching the students in local schools how to re-use, reduce and recycle waste. The actual allocation of funding will be decided in the 2009/10 year.

　

RECOMMENDED

That the apology from Pauline Clarkin on behalf of Te Kupenga O Ngati Hako Inc to be received as she is not longer able to present her submission in person to Elected Members.

And that Pauline Clarkin be invited to another meeting of the Council to present her submission and discuss matters arising there from.

RECOMMENDED

That the submitter advised of as follows:

Water Charges

That the submitter’s suggestion has merit, however it would be administratively expensive to implement ot monitor. It would be hoped that the savings in water charges adopted by Council though the Haruaki Community Plan would be sufficient motivation for the conservation of water.

Farming Courses

That Council notes this is a current work programme for Environment Waikato and Ministry of Agriculture. Council may play an advocacy role.

Sustainability, Climate Change & Changing Demographic Debates

That Council thank the submitter for their feedback on the Right Debate issues.

That Council has adopted its recommended options and has formed a focus group called the ‘Right Debate Focus Group’. This group will further develop methods by which Council’s preferred options can be progressed.

RECOMMENDED

That the submitter advised of as follows:

Walkways development

That Council thanks the submitter for their supportive comments toward Council on the development of walkways in Hauraki.

Retention of public land

That Council does not believe that it is necessary to have a policy on the retention of "public land". If and when Council disposes of public land that it owns or administers there are appropriate processes that must be followed which allow for public input into the decision making.

Heritage protection

That heritage, particularly built heritage, is a key topic for the District plan Review and significant resources in terms of time and finances have been allocated to this work. The District Plan Committee will have developed a draft policy approach to this when the draft District Plan is discussed with the community. It is recommended that this submission be referred to the District Plan Committee for consideration.

Sustainability, Climate Change & Changing Demographic Debates

That Council thank the submitter for their feedback on the Right Debate issues.

That Council has adopted its recommended options and has formed a focus group called the ‘Right Debate Focus Group’. This group will further develop methods by which Council’s preferred options can be progressed.