COUNCILLOR’S VIEW

Ask questions argue if you need answers

2018 — what a year! This year has been a learning curve for council and me.

I ask questions. I challenge. I argue. I think I get under people’s skin a little . . . this isn’t intentional. I simply advocate for the ratepayer. I’ve learned that I don’t ‘do’ politics or gossip. I stay true to what I believe is right.

An idea of mine that has received a lot of support is tapping into external funding — non-rates funding. This was a major goal for me.

The opportunities are endless for private and Government funding for just about anything a community needs — infrastructure, sports and community, environmental, tourism and more. So the current development of an External Funding Strategy by enthusiastic staff is an exciting prospect for the future. Projects already benefiting from external funding are the Waipawa Pool and plans for future footpaths. There is potential for future funding for some other community-led issues like unsealed roads and water storage.

The planets are lining up with the Coalition Government and the Provincial Growth Fund Shane Jones’ shot in the arm for regions. Council currently has five applications. There is also a chance that the Coalition Government will reinvigorate the funding for drinking water and wastewater infrastructure for smaller rural councils cut under the previous government.

Growth is real in CHB. More houses equals more rates and that helps all of us pay for infrastructure.

New valuations from QV are out and property values are sky-high. This is great for property owners and real estate agents, and not so great for first-home buyers or renters. I’m not going to gloss over it, our 2018-2028 Long Term Plan signalled major projects, better services, and a corresponding increase in costs over the next 10 years. With revaluations, the rating ‘pie’ will be cut differently. The new valuations will be applied July 2019. If you are on a pension or low income, apply for a rates rebate — it’s a fairly easy process and can save you up to $600 on rates.

The Annual Plan 2019 is a great way for you to have your say about current and future projects, costs, affordability and priorities. Also, the new District Plan will be released as a draft in 2019. Please make sure you have your say in 2019 — challenge us, ask questions, argue if you need to and even get under our skin a little. Your ultimate say can be given as a vote in the 2019 elections. We are all at your service. Have a safe and wonderful Merry Christmas!