CIVIC DUTY
Hooray the council and the review of their ‘Civic duty a Feature in 2016’ as seen in the Chronicle 11/01/2017.
Unsurprising then, no mention of their total disregard of the longstanding protest against the decommissioning without consultation of the Waharoa Community Hall. A lengthy paper trail shows nil response to correspondence dating back to 30 June 2014.
The council response since December 11, 2015 has been a reiteration of the same nonsense.
‘‘At a council meeting on October 14, 2015, it was resolved to decommission the hall and declare it surplus to requirements. As the land was gifted to council, we are now working through the obligated process, which has involved the hall been valued and an offer being made to the original land owners. If they decline the offer to purchase, it is likely the hall and land will be put for sale on the open market.’’
Such arrogance is breathtaking. The Waharoa Memorial Hall is a ‘memorial hall’ and belongs to the community, not the council - they are caretakers only. Until there is transparency and accountability concerning this issue, including financial statements, the protests will continue. Caroline DiBert Member of friends of the Waharoa Memorial Hall. there and the Matamata community for all their love, support and generosity throughout the last few days. Speechless, but grateful in all ways, we really appreciate every little thing. Thank you so much, God bless you. Take care and all our love goes out to you all.
Love the Wilson family.
Comments regarding the proposed civic centre:
As a ratepayer I don’t feel that I should have to contribute for features that a small portion of our community use.
- Michele Morrow
What’s the use of renewing the buildings if you aren’t going to go the whole hog? The new centre will be made use of and will attract a lot of use if it is user friendly. No stage or wings? Doesn’t make sense to me.
Sharon Edge
How complex does the stage have to be? A stage, a proscenium, and wings? A simple curtain and lighting grid? Does it really have to be the Founders Theatre?
-Ian Latham