Message from the Mayor
Kia ora koutou,
There has been some exciting things happening in our district since the last Community Connection. It was great to be part of the Electra Business Awards last night and cheer on some remarkable local businesses and induct Charlie and Chrissie Pedersen into the Horowhenua Business Hall of Fame. It was a fantastic evening to not only recognise the contribution that Charlie and Chrissie have made to the Horowhenua but see the innovation and hard work of finalists and category winners.
Last week Mayors Task Force for Jobs supported Future Pathways, an interactive employment expo for rangatahi. It was fantastic to see the positive vibe that was there on the day and I have no doubt that many eyes were opened to the opportunities that exist in many different fields.
Also last week I attended a special ribbon cutting ceremony at Mabel Central – the first multiresidential development of its kind in Levin. Mabel Central introduces 18 three bedroom and 25 two bedroom dwellings to the local housing market. Congratulations to Homestead Construction and sub-contractors who contributed to bringing this innovative development to life.
Council’s focus has now shifted to preparing the Long Term Plan 2024-2044 and we would value your feedback. Planning for the next 20 years is a group effort, and we need everyone’s input to make the right decisions for the future of Horowhenua.
In this Community Connection you’ll find a list of questions we’d like you to consider, and we look forward to your responses.
We also need your help to decide on which changes we should make to our Rates Remission & Postponement Policy. Consultation is open now and closes on 20 November 2023. Council will prepare to adopt the final Rates Remission & Postponement Policy on Wednesday 13 December 2023. We’ve included information about this policy in this Community Connection, or you can visit letskorero. horowhenua.govt.nz/RRPP to learn more, share your view and make a submission.
While we look to the future, there is also much to celebrate in the next few days and weeks. Tomorrow we will celebrate the switching on of the popular Jubilee Park splash pad for the warmer months with a party.
I hope you have a safe and happy Labour Weekend and congratulations to Waiopehu College in celebrating their 50th Jubilee this weekend. Welcome home to those coming back to town for the celebrations. I am sure attendees will enjoy the memories and sharing of many yarns from back in the day!
Finally, I would like to congratulate our new Member of Parliament for Ōtaki, Tim Costley and extend our sincere thanks to outgoing MP Terisa Ngobi for her commitment and contribution to Horowhenua/Ōtaki over the last three years. Until next time.
Mayor Bernie Wanden