Record tumbles as residents from across South Waikato District line up to have their say

Wednesday, 12 June 2024

The South Waikato District Council received a record 244 submissions to its long-term plan with 69 people asking to be heard in person.

A record number of South Waikato locals want to make their voices heard and their council is preparing to host extended hearings to fit them all in.

South Waikato ratepayers are in line for three years of almost 9% annual rates rises if their council goes ahead with its draft long-term plan (LTP) unchanged.

The council released its draft plan for the next 10 years to the public in April and received a record 244 submissions before closing consultation four days later than advertised on June 10.

South Waikato mayor Gary Petley said the record number of submissions was proof locals had a strong interest in the future direction of the district.

A council spokesperson said consultation was extended after “receiving feedback from our community that many had not yet completed their submissions” so decided to extend the deadline.

Of those submissions, a record 69 people have indicated they would like to speak directly to the council during its LTP hearings, which are scheduled for Monday and Tuesday, June 24 and 25, from 9am to 3pm in Tokoroa.

The council has already indicated it would need to extend those sessions, but final dates and times are yet to be decided on.

Some South Waikato locals have accused the council of looking after the interests of big business over community concerns.

The council said 198 submissions were made online and 46 were either posted or hand delivered.

Tokoroa residents made 85 submissions, Putāruru residents made 90, 27 came from Tīrau, 37 came from outside the district, and the rest came from Lichfield, Arapuni and Atiamuri.

“To encourage submissions, we employed a more creative approach by amplifying our messages through various channels such as newspaper advertisements, social media, and Antenno.

The South Waikato District Council has signalled an interest in selling off some assets, which could include the Tokoroa Airfield.

“This strategy led to increased traffic on local community Facebook pages, sparking discussions on topics like the proposed rate increases and specific elements of the LTP, such as the airfield.'

Other hot button issues for the district include “signals” from the council it could “rationalise facilities, buildings and land” after undertaking “a critical analysis of surplus land and buildings”.

This could lead to local pools, libraries, and the Tokoroa Airfield, either being closed or sold.

The draft LTP also features a proposal to spend $20.7m on community facilities, including a $16.1m “almost complete rebuild” of Tokoroa’s heated indoor pool complex, and $5.7m on parks and reserves.

Concerns the council is favouring business growth over community interests have also been mentioned.

Mayor Gary Petley thanked the community for taking the time to submit their feedback.

“The record number of submissions we received reflects a strong interest in the future direction of our district.

“Our elected members are eager to engage in the upcoming hearings and deliberations … your involvement is crucial in shaping the future of our community.”

According to a council statement, hearings are a “unique opportunity to witness local democracy in action” and it is encouraging locals to attend, either in person or online.

“By attending, you can gain insights into the decision-making process and hear first hand the diverse perspectives and ideas from members of our community.

“Your presence not only supports the participants but also underscores the importance of community involvement in shaping the future of our region.”