Letters: 'Loaning money to fund projects isn't new': Sturt

Sir Howard Morrison Performing Arts Centre. Photo/file

I notice not a word of positivity from the Rotorua District Residents and Ratepayers on the wonderful gesture of Sir Owen Glenn and the amazing vision this Energy Charitable Trust has in investing in the Sir Howard Morrison Performing Arts Centre upgrade and earthquake strengthening.

The funding is flowing in, same as with the fantastic job the museum development fund members did with the development of the Energy Events Centre at little cost to ratepayers.

Most of council's major infrastructure is funded by inter-generational debt as this is a way to spread the cost of such projects over the life of the asset.

The runway at the airport was also funded by debt to ensure over the next 50-odd years international flights could continue. Yes, the goal for international flights was ambitious but we were told airlines would back it. Yeah right!

The Sportsdrome when built was state of the art as was the Rotorua Museum. If people of vision don't see the way ahead, Rotorua would stop.

Debt is a sound way to provide sewerage, water, roading and facilities like EEC and Sir Howard Morrison centre. Aquatic Centre and the Blue Baths was funded by debt when built.

That's why the young people of Rotorua support the creation of a great skate park, cycleways and international BMX track at Waipa and funders are involved now.

The development of the Aquatic Centre and an upgrade is also being requested.

Cr CHARLES STURT
Rotorua Lakes Council, sport and recreation portfolio lead
(Abridged)

What name will change next?

I totally share C C McDowall's sentiments (Centre's name a mouthful, Letters, January 18).

What really annoyed me the most, was the name change was made overnight with in my view no input from the public.

C C McDowall's suggestion 'Rotorua Civic Theatre' has my vote, for that is what it is - a Civic Theatre.

The name changes that have gone on within the city over the last couple of years, has me shaking my head.

The Rotorua District Council, The City Focus and, now the Rotorua District Library - has a new name.

These changes all cost money – in new advertising, signage and stationery. What purse does this come out of?

What scares me is that I will wake up one morning and Rotorua will no longer be the city where I'm living.

PAULEEN WILKINSON
Rotorua