Ideas for improving public transport, sorting out traffic congestion and celebrating the area’s heritage and culture are just some of the priorities Howick Local Board have included in its draft local board plan – now it wants your views.
Every three years local boards develop these plans, which help guide their decisions on local activities and projects and reflect the issues communities have identified as important to them. Consultation on the draft Howick Local Board Plan 2017 open on 22 May.
Howick Local board chair David Collings says the board has real focus of getting on with what it has already started.
“We can’t do everything so it’s important we continue to focus on delivering value for money ratepayers, which is why there is clear direction throughout our plan is to do more with what we already have and to empower and support our community to take the lead on local initiatives.”
Among the outcomes the board has identified are protecting and enhancing the natural environment and providing quality facilities that allow people to enjoy active and healthy lifestyles.
It is also keen to support initiatives that boost the local economy and tourism opportunities and to continue to progress an arts-focussed multi-use facility and library in the Flat Bush area.
Local targeted rate
Mr Collings says the local board is particularly keen to get direction from the community on whether it should investigate a local targeted rate to allow free entry to its swimming pools.
A targeted rate would involve an additional charge on Howick ratepayers’ rates bills, with the money used to pay for the costs associated with free access.
“We already have free access for people 16 years and under but it is possible that cost is a barrier to other residents using our facilities, particular our seniors,” says Mr Collings.
“This is very much the first step and we want to get a sense from the community on whether they want us to at least investigate it or not.”
Feedback on the draft Howick Local Board Plan closes 30 June.
How to get involved
Go to shapeauckland.co.nz to read the full plan and to make a submission. Copies of the full draft plan also available to view at local libraries, local board offices and council service centres.
People can also come along to one of the following pop up events and discuss the plan with local board members:
- Wednesday 24 May – Botany Night Market, Botany Town Centre, 6.30pm-8pm
- Saturday 27 May – Howick Village Market, Picton St, Howick, 8am-12.30pm
- Thursday 1 June – Pakuranga Plaza (centre court outside Farmers) 10 Aylesbury St, Pakuranga, 6.30pm-8pm
- Thursday 8 June – Howick Library, 25 Uxbridge Road, 6.30pm-8pm
- Saturday 17 June – Pakuranga Library, 7 Aylesbury St, 10am-12pm
- Thursday 29 June – Botany Town Centre, at the community booth in the Pavilion building, 6.30pm-8pm.
