Viewpoint – Playing your part

I have really enjoyed my first year on the Rodney Local Board, especially meeting so many of you. Unity and collaboration are the backbone of any vibrant community and it is something we have been working hard on. In Rodney, we have found common ground, focusing on initiatives that are close to the hearts of our residents. These shared goals set the stage for transformative improvements. I will cover just a few highlights:

Collaborating with councillors and mayor

Our strong, productive advocacy and partnership with the councillors and the mayor is propelling us forward, especially in crucial areas like roading networks and maintenance.

Your voice, your choice

Your input serves as our guiding light. So thanks to your feedback on the annual budget 2023/2024, we’re channelling investments into ecological restoration, library services and community initiatives. In the new year, we also have the next Long Term Plan to tackle and, with our budget constraints, it is critical that we continue to hear and reflect what our communities are saying.

Investment themes this financial year include:

Community safety, with specific funding for the Local Board Crime Prevention Fund.

Community spaces, which includes renewal of community centres, halls, and ensuring parks and recreational areas are welcoming and accessible to all.

Coastal infrastructure, which covers vital investments in seawall renewals and jetty repairs.

Environmental conservation, such as launching work programmes and initiatives aimed at environmental protection and conservation.

We’re equipping community leaders and volunteers with the resources needed to get stuck in and activate their own local spaces and initiatives. The introduction of an “activator” role will stimulate a broad range of activities within our community centres and halls in the north-east, leading to greater community involvement and outcomes.

In conclusion

I want to thank everyone for your feedback on our Local Board Plan, which is a blueprint for our communities over the coming term. With the funding now in place, we’re moving from plans to action which is great to see. As we recover from a difficult year, we’re looking ahead to the warmth of summer – long days in our beautiful parks, family outings, and community events that bring us all together. Wishing you all a great summer season and thanking you all for playing your part in making our community great.