MEDIA RELEASE

May 4 2009

Waitakere Residents Have Their Say On What’s Best For The West

About 300 submissions have been made to Best for the West - Waitakere’s Draft 10 Year Plan which sets out the council’s key priorities and projects and their estimated costs.

While the number of submissions is lower than in previous years, Waitakere residents and ratepayers have considered and commented on a number of key issues which the council asked for specific feedback on including the council’s contribution to the Rugby World Cup 2011, a possible change to the mobile library service, retrofitting the city and developments at New Lynn, Hobsonville and Massey North/Westgate.

The plan also incorporates a draft budget for 2009/10 which shows an indicative rates rise of 2.98 percent (around $1 a week for the average residential property).

Submissions have yet to be tallied and analysed however many submitters have signalled they want to speak to their submissions at hearings to be held at the council between May 18 and 28.

Several submitters have also taken to the opportunity to make their views on Auckland’s regional governance known.

“Submissions this year are down and I presume that has something to do with our somewhat uncertain future, however I am delighted so many people have taken the opportunity to let us know what they think,” says Long Term Council Community Plan and Annual Plan Committee Chair Janet Clews.

“Given the uncertainties it’s important we continue to plan for and provide Waitakere’s core services as well as make progress on major urban development projects for the long term benefit of the people of Waitakere and the wider Auckland region.”

Following the hearings the council will once again consider the draft plan before a final version is adopted on June 30.

ENDS

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