Rates rise all a matter of timing

Mayor Damon Odey said there was a need to see a lot more information and planning from the respective golf clubs before the council committed more money to it.

Cr Dave Jack agreed.

‘‘At the end of the day, this is a bit of guess work. I don’t mind leaving a little bit there, but I would like to see some more detail. I think it needs a lot more work,’’ Jack said.

However, the council approved the $1.05m upgrade of the Temuka pool, of which $600,000 had already been budgeted in the LTP.

Cr Paddy O’Reilly, of Temuka, said it was a great day for the community.

‘‘They’ve been waiting for this new pool for quite some time. They’re very excited about this.

‘‘I’m elated the council has seen the worth in this,’’ O’Reilly said.

The council also agreed to increasing the parks and recreation department’s annual budget by $125,000 so it can keep on top of contracting and maintenance pressures.

The installation of a new roundabout at the dangerous intersection of WinchesterGeraldine/Mackenzie/Coach/Tiplady Rd is also likely to go ahead, with council approving $500,000 towards the proposed $2m project.

The project is eligible for NZTA funding of up to 75 per cent.

There was also an agreement by council to help fund about $575,000 over the next three years for remedial work and research into the deteriorating state of the Pareora Dam. It is not yet known whether the council will decide to remove the structure.

As it was determined that there were no major changes to the budget from last year, the councillors have decided not to put it out to formal public consultation.

‘‘They [Temuka residents] have been waiting for this new pool for quite some time. They’re very excited about this. I’m elated the council has seen the worth in this.’’

Cr Paddy O’Reilly