- By Howick Ward Councillor Bo Burns
Over the past month, one issue has dominated conversations across our ward – PC120.
People have been worried about the scale of proposed property intensification, the lack of timeframe and clarity in the early stages, and the need for genuine engagement here in east Auckland.
That’s why I’m really pleased to share some good news. After continued persistence, Auckland Council has confirmed an additional PC120 information event will be held right here in our community.
This might seem like a small administrative decision, but it’s a significant win for our area.
Many residents have been asking for the chance to hear directly from the planners, to view the maps for our suburbs, and to understand exactly how PC120 could shape our neighbourhoods.
Up until now, all the in-person sessions were outside our ward, which wasn’t good enough for a community of our size.
Alongside this work, the past month has been incredibly busy as I settle into the council’s governing body.
I’ve received over 150 constituent enquiries ranging from PC120 to Pakuranga Highway concerns, water rate issues and general rates and council services queries.
Every message gets dealt with in a timely manner either directly by me, or from the department of the enquiry.
To ensure I can serve our ward effectively, I’ve attended a wide programme of briefings and workshops.
These include emergency management planning, governing body induction, legal and finance briefings, a full rates policy overview, Time of Use charging work, Watercare asset discussions and sessions with the Auckland Council executive leadership team.
I also attended the Business East Tamaki breakfast with the Prime Minister, the Auckland Economic Development Office meeting, and the Barry Curtis Park playground opening which was a wonderful celebration for local families.
Two PC120 briefings were held for elected members. I also have been doing a lot of work with our Cockle Bay Residents and Ratepayers Association and its members about PC120 submissions, and talking and deep-diving in rates.
I’ve managed to get rates to the Long Term Plan. Rates in relation to the Uniformed Annual General Charge (UAGC) have not been discussed since 2016 and not increased since 2012.
These conversations have been vital to strengthening my understanding of the subject matter and ensuring the voice of east Auckland is at the forefront and heard.
Thank you to everyone who continues to reach out, ask questions and stay engaged.
Your voice matters. I’ll keep working hard every day to ensure our ward is heard, supported and well represented. Please follow my council journey here: www.facebook.com/boburnsnz.
- The Auckland Council information session about PC120 is at St Columba Presbyterian Church, 480 Ti Rakau Drive, Botany, on Tuesday, December 9, at 6.30-8pm.
- Disclaimer: Bo Burns is the owner of Times Media, publishers of the Eastern Times.
