My principal place of residence is in the Kaitake-Ngāmotu General Ward area.
These are exciting times.......Three Waters- removal of locally owned assets and paid for by Ratepayers, into an untouchable state controlled entity. Just look at Auckland to see how amalgamation works! Bigger is not always better.
On that note, we need to protect our current council entities within Taranaki. Again, bigger does not equal better, Democracy has been forged over 2500 years. It is imperative to good local governance. There are no versions of democracy....there is only democracy.
Party politics do not belong in District Councils. A Councillor in such a body literally represents the ratepayers and residents in that area. This is the anti-thesis of party politics.
I am a long time resident of Oakura and New Plymouth with a stint in Auckland between. Have interests in .family, outdoors, horticulture, NZ History, and much more.
Protect what we have with an eye on the past and plans for the future.
No. They need to be related to rate of inflation and 6% per year is cumulative.
No. Absolutely not. Why would you give away your assets and have no control of something so vital to life.
No. Why....Tell me what the problem is then solve that. Look at our record on rubbish disposal. That would be a good start. Light rail to ease traffic. Etc, etc.
Yes. A vibrant central business area is critical to a healthy community. Strip shopping is back. Not only N.P. But also Waitara, Bell Block, Fitzroy, Inglewood, Oakura, Westown, Okato, even Frankleigh Park.
Let's see how it goes. I don't support division by race.
Treat them equally with New Plymouth. This is a vast district with people's of very different expectations. Managing those is vital for council.
I don't believe the Racecourse is the correct site. The green open space of the Racecourse should be for Horse Racing and the members of that industry should be encouraged not hindered. New sports facilities are needed but a better site should be employed.
Communication with the community at large. Less spin and more honesty.
