Residents submit on Kaipara plan

Rates, refuse, community rates, dogs, roading and footpaths were among the issues raised in the 309 submissions received to Kaipara District Council’s Long Term Council Community Plan (LTCCP), which closed on April 21.

Council’s stakeholder engagement manager Claire Lichtwark-McInnes says comments came from individuals, organisations and groups, including one bearing more than 500 signatures seeking improvement to the entrance to Ripiro Beach at Baylys and a number from Te Kopuru with up to 130 names attached.

The LTCCP consultation document asked whether residents wanted a 1.5 percent or less rate increase, a 3.9 percent increase to maintain existing levels of service or about 5.3 percent to fund some improvements. More than 50 submissions included rates in their comments with the 1.5 percent and 3.9 percent options both receiving significant support, and a number opting for 5.3 percent.

Submissions on refuse had some supporting user-pays rubbish collections and others favouring the idea of Council supplying free bags and including the cost in rates.

Roading submissions contained a clear message that existing standards must be maintained.

Community rates attracted 27 submissions, most supporting such a rate for the Ruawai War Memorial Hall. Twelve asked Council to provide shade in playgrounds and develop a sunsmart policy.

Submissions to the proposal for 8.30 pm to 7 am liquor bans at a number of beaches and towns attracted a number of submissions including the police who want a 24/7 ban at all Kaipara beaches.

A hearing for those who wished to speak to their submission will be held at the Mangawhai Domain Hall on Friday, May 8.