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Investigating commissioner for signs, billboards
AUCKLAND CITY COUNCIL MEDIA RELEASE
15 February 2006
Council investigates an independent commissioner for signs and billboards hearing panel
The Planning and Regulatory Committee has resolved to look at appointing an independent commissioner to the panel considering proposed signs and billboards bylaws.
The Auckland City Council has released proposed new signs and billboards bylaws for public consultation and is accepting submissions until 2 March.
The committee chairperson, Councillor Glenda Fryer, says a panel of councillors is due to consider the detail of the proposed bylaws and submissions later in the year.
“The proposed bylaws represent a significant policy shift and it’s important that there is political involvement in any decision-making on such a change.
“However, I believe that it will be beneficial to have a representative from outside of the political domain to provide a different perspective and knowledge.”
She says a legal opinion will be sought on whether an independent commissioner can be appointed to the hearings panel.
If this is legally acceptable, then an independent commissioner will join the five appointed councillors on the panel.
Ms Fryer says the preference is for an independent commissioner with skills in the area of urban design.
She says it is important to have an independent commissioner who has skills that are directly relevant to the bylaws under discussion.
“I can also assure the public that all commissioners will hear submissions with an open mind and are not entering into the process with any pre-determined outcome in mind.”
The full panel to consider the proposed bylaws is: Councillor Glenda Fryer (chairperson), Councillor Faye Storer, Councillor Richard Northey, Councillor Graeme Mulholland, Councillor Penny Sefuiva.
Meanwhile, the council’s Combined Committees will consider allocating $200,000 every year for five years for an education and enforcement campaign around the new bylaws, whatever form they may take.
Those wanting to find out more about the proposed signs and billboards bylaws or to make a submission should visit www.aucklandcity.govt.nz/bylaws or call 379 2020.
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