It’s again that time of year when councils release their annual plans for spending our money. This year it also coincides with revealing plans for a higher Raglan footbridge, water metering and tendering to build a new museum. Despite it being election year, rates are again going up by more than inflation; 5% on the Uniform Annual General Charge and water rates up by 10% to pay for meters, when inflation is 2%. General Rates are rising 2.3%.
Full details of the Waikato District Plan will be released on 22 March and Whaingaroa Environmental Defence (WED) will be holding a meeting to discuss the plans on Wednesday 31 March 7.30pm at Community House, Bow St. The meeting will look at the plans and the submissions WED and individuals might make on them. “Local bodies can have a significant effect on the environment” said WED convenor Malibu Hamilton. He went on to say, “For example, about $½m is being spent on putting in a pipe to empty our sewage into the harbour mouth, but won’t be finished until it gets a resource consent.” About half the rates continue to go to roading, including expensive plans to widen Wainui Reserve bridge, seal “Ocean Beach” car park and rebuild the Te Mata/Te Hutewai road junction.
WED will also be looking at projects which might be run. Cemetery fees are going up again by up to 34%. A cheaper and more environmentally friendly option could be Natural Burials, which could lead to the creation of new natural bush areas. Malibu was concerned that despite having money for roading, a museum and a higher footbridge, they couldn’t afford a jumping platform, nor even just a study to see if the school swimming pool could be solar heated in winter and open to the public. He added, “They used to publicise plans in ‘Link’, but now they minimise publicity. WED’s meeting will give people a chance to hear what’s planned for them and have their say.”
Press Release: Whaingaroa Environmental Defence 14 March 2010