What is WTF all about?

Engagement on the next long term plan for Gisborne - Tairāwhiti has kicked off with Council putting the question to the community “What’s the future?”

Over the next seven weeks councillors and staff will be talking to community groups, schools, marae and stakeholders about a number of challenges facing our district and the significant decisions Council will need to make for infrastructure and ultimately rates for the 2018 - 2028 Long Term Plan.

Mayor Meng Foon says he is looking forward to hearing feedback from the community.

He indicated this next ten year plan is financially tight as we need to make a large provision for the Wastewater Treatment Plant addition, Waipaoa Flood Control banks, roading demands and the Makauri Aquifer recharge project.

“We have the task to balance what’s the right level of investment, against what our community is comfortable with and can afford.”

Chief executive Nedine Thatcher Swann said we wanted to take a fresh approach in engaging our community.

We have some serious challenges that we need to address that will impact on the districts future. Before we make any firm decisions the Council wants to hear from our community.

“WTF makes it easy for people to share their opinions. We want to be approachable to everyone, so those that are particularly hard to reach will also get involved and help shape what we deliver and what we invest in.”

“We want to hear your priorities and solutions for the future of our district and how and or who you think should pay for what’s needed.

“People can read about our issues and challenges for the future on Council’s website and link to our feedback portal WTF Tairawhiti.

“This site is interactive, allows people upload images, video and maps; like and share ideas – we’ll promote trending topics and continue the conversations through news articles, e-newsletters and social media to help provide more knowledge on our issues and encourage discussion.

“It’s also available in full reo Maori and we encourage anyone who wants to, can provide their feedback in Te Reo.”

“People who want to write in or call us with their feedback can also do so through our customer services team.

“Staff and councillors will be out visiting a number of community spaces and events, culminating at the A&P show in October, to be able to have conversations and talk to people face to face.

“Look out for our WTF combi van loaded up with our team and tablets, ready to talk to you about the future for Tairāwhiti.”

ENDS

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