Budget has also been allocated to increased resourcing for recovery coordination; a new forestry taskforce to identify locations where forestry debris is at risk of being mobilised in future storm events; and the expansion of the land management team to support increased freshwater plan and land management regulation coming into effect.
Ms Thatcher Swann says the council is committed to staying within the limits of what was promised in the LTP.
“For most residents, this will mean a rates increase of 6.5 percent.
“Income from rates alone is not enough to support the challenges that our region faces. Government funding will be critical to implement the work we need to achieve over the next 12 months,” she said.
“The funding we’ve asked for will support us with road and bridge reinstatement, removal of woody debris from waterways, increased monitoring and compliance of forestry practices and increasing flood protection.”
Ms Thatcher Swann says key projects in the 2021/2031 Long Term Plan will still be delivered as promised.
“This includes Kiwa Pools (funded by $40m from the Government), the wastewater treatment plant upgrade and township upgrades.
“We’re also focused on ensuring our communities are safe, connected and protected as we work towards our region’s recovery.
“There are major changes and challenges ahead of us and we will have to rely heavily on investment from central government as we look to build the future resilience of Te Tairāwhiti.
“Our longer-term recovery journey involves developing community plans that enable communities to live the lives that they value.”
Ms Thatcher Swann thanked those who took the time to submit feedback on the Annual Plan during the consultation in June.
The main themes from the submissions were alternative transport options; a local economy; environmental sustainability and resilience;· regional equity and fairness; and community involvement and empowerment.
