One week to go for submissions on City Plan

April 15, 2004

The community of North Shore City still has one week to comment on the draft 2004-14 City Plan

Consultation on the draft City Plan, released by the North Shore City Council last month, ends next Thursday, April 22.

The draft plan proposes a 2.9 per cent rates rise for the next three years and an average of 3.2 per cent over the 10-year plan. It also puts forward a range of proposals for people to consider if, how and when they should be funded. Improved stormwater systems, better libraries and more parks are among the 14 proposals on which the council is seeking people's feedback.

Deputy Mayor Dianne Hale says it is a great city and her council wants to ensure it continues to thrive.

"It's essential we get feedback from the public before we make decisions on what, when and how," she says.

The City Plan asks residents and business people how much they are willing to pay to support the kind of city they want. Whether to build a large library and recreation centre in Albany, underground overhead power and telephone lines, secure coastal land for future parks and enhance town centres are key questions. The plan also seeks feedback on ways to fund this growing city, who should pay for new waste reduction services and if enough is being spent to ensure the city copes better during storms.

Councillor Hale says these are important issues for the city.

"The proposals are wide ranging and there will some hard calls to make but we must carefully consider what we can afford and what are the priorities."

Public hearings will take place in May to consider the community's feedback. The City Plan hearings committee will be chaired by Mayor George Wood and comprise all councillors. People can choose to address the committee and speak to their submission in person. The amended City Plan will be considered for adoption by the council at a special meeting on June 30.

A full copy of the draft City Plan and an online submission form are available on the council's website www.northshorecity.govt.nz. A copy of the plan can also be viewed at council offices and libraries.

ENDS

© Scoop Media