Viewpoint – Robust processes underway

We are nine months into the current term of the Rodney Local Board, and on the whole things are going well.  There have been some contentious issues that have made for some feisty debates and a few headlines, but that is politics. The important thing is that we are contesting ideas and initiatives and not attacking the people behind them. That just undermines public trust. I am unapologetic about a commitment to robust and transparent process when it comes to public money, public land and ensuring that the public interest is central to our decision making.

We had a great response to our local board plan so I would like to thank everyone who took the time to engage. It is vital that our priorities reflect the multiple and often competing needs and priorities of the communities we serve across Rodney. The plan informs the work programme for the next three years and my focus has been to ensure that the area I represent is fairly included. Historically it hasn’t and with the rapid population growth the gaps are showing. 

It is fantastic to see the vision for Green Road Park coming to life thanks to the efforts of our amazing volunteers and the mitigation planting, fencing and pathway efforts of the Penlink project team delivering more than council could deliver alone. We will provide a public toilet there this summer, more pathway improvements, and some picnic tables and seating around the park to cater for the growing number of visitors.

There is currently huge current debate about Fast-track developments. All applications are certainly not equal in terms of impact, especially the two landfill applications and multiple out of sequence housing developments that solely provide housing. A shift from counting animal stock units to housing stock units is only positive where there is adequate infrastructure available to support it. We ensure that local constraints, and community views and impacts are included for consideration in the limited way the process allows.  Proposed changes to development levies will improve the ability of Council to ensure that out of sequence developments pay their way, but the impact on Rodney is significant.

The new Council AI tool has made reporting issues much faster and less frustrating than phoning the call centre. Please give it a try if you see illegal dumping, litter, graffiti or have issues like missed rubbish collections, noise or roaming dogs or stock. Visit https://ask.aucklandcouncil.govt.nz

Ever wondered about the mechanics of elections? They are recruiting right now for people to work this election – if you are interested check out the details on: https://work.elections.nz