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MINUTES of the full council Submissions Hearing MEETING held 9.30 am, Tuesday, 4 May 2021 at Tasman Council Chamber, 189 Queen Street, Richmond |
Present: Mayor
T King, Deputy Mayor S Bryant, Councillors C Butler, B Dowler, C Hill, K
Maling, C Mackenzie, D Ogilvie, T Tuffnell, A Turley, T Walker and
D Wensley
In Attendance: Chief
Executive (J Dowding), Community Development Manager
(S Edwards), Executive Assistant (T Fifield), Executive Support Officer
(G Drummond)
Part Attendance: Senior
Policy Advisor (B Wayman), Policy Officer (S Hartley), Corporate Services
Manager (M Drummond), Acting Strategic Policy Manager
(J Neame), Senior Policy Advisor (A Bywater), Policy Advisor (A Gerraty), Environment
& Planning Manager (D Bush-King), Chief Information Officer
(S Manners (via Zoom)), Environmental Information Manager (R Smith)
2 Apologies and Leave of Absence
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Turley/Walker That apologies for absence from Cr Greening be accepted. LOST |
DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST
Cr Maling declared he is a trustee on the Nelson Tasman Business Trust.
Cr Mackenzie declared she is a Council appointed trustee on the Tasman Environmental Trust.
3 Reports
Sarah Holmes and Nigel Teal on behalf of Nelson Tasman Business Trust (28370)
Ms Holmes presented a powerpoint. She thanked the Council for their ongoing support of the Trust with the proposed funding of $15,000. The Trust is asking for an additional $10,000 annually towards the cost to employ a further part time person to facilitate networking events. She said that 30% of their business clients are based in Tasman and have benefited from a guidance mentor. The presentation included testimonials from trustees.
In response to a question, the Trust are encouraging use of their carbon footprint.
In response to a question, it is hard to track how many jobs are created.
They noted that $26,000 of their income comes from sponsorship and grants (some of which are provided by businesses).
In response to a question about how the Trust is different to the Nelson Regional Development Agency, Ms Holmes said the Trust is at a grass roots level and they work directly with small business owners to provide mentoring.
Leeson Baldey on behalf of Warmer Healthier Homes Te Tau Ihu Charitable Trust (28460)
Mr Baldey thanked the Council for their support and said that over 500 families are now living in warmer, healthier homes. He asked the Council to continue to support their programme for another three years. He said there has been a 400% increase in homes being insulated in Tasman this financial year and believes the programme outcomes are exceptional. They anticipate that within the next three years, all remaining eligible low income households will be insulated and they are excited to be bringing the programme to a close after 10 years.
Mr Baldey anticipated there are approximately 380 qualified homes left to insulate.
Anton Boeyen on behalf of Wai-West Horticulture Ltd (28785)
Mr Boeyen, General Manager of Wai-West Horticulture, spoke about the Waimea Community Dam cost overruns. Wai-West Horticulture support Option A (funding through a mix of a new proposed targeted rate and District-wide general rate) which is presented in the consultation document, however they urge the Council to reconsider the proposed allocation of the project cost overruns and the mix of funding capital cost recovery of overruns between the targeted rate and the general rate. He provided some background about Wai-West Horticulture.
Mr Boeyen said the solution of the Waimea Dam took a considerable amount of work and not everyone was happy with the project costs but a union of the parties (both private and public) was formed. Wai-West entered the agreements in good faith which was on the basis that when they invested that was it. He said to date Wai-West has invested a surplus of $3 million of their own funds and estimated that the overall annual costs for water will be $500,000. He doesn’t want the dam to become an irrigator issue and we need to see it as a shared responsibility as it is a community benefit. They believe the allocation of project cost overruns should be allocated on a one-third irrigators, one-third urban supply and one-third from the environmental supply.
Bernadine Goldsmith on behalf of Nelson Resident Association (27448)
Ms Goldsmith, President of the Nelson Resident Association, spoke on behalf of Tasman District members. She spoke about the Waimea Community Dam cost overruns and suggested the Council ask Nelson City Council and finance companies for $10 million to help fund the Dam.
She spoke about the Port and the Airport merger and asked when has a merger ever been for the benefit of a ratepayer.
Ms Goldsmith spoke about the joint councils transport service. A transport service is about being efficient, cost effective and safe and believes the councils haven’t done a very good job. Another element has been added to the public transport system - low carbon emissions. She is worried about how expensive the new buses are in Auckland and if we are going to change our fleet. She would like both councils to understand that the ratepayers fund most of their projects – think about the most cost effective method.
Sky Davies and Gillian Bishop on behalf of Tasman Environmental Trust (TET) (28911)
Gillian Bishop, Chair of TET and Sky Davies spoke to their submission. They tabled their Annual Achievements Report (August 2020). They value the long partnership with Tasman District Council. They said over the last five years TET has grown from a small organisation into an organisation with multiple projects – they are currently supporting 23 projects with a combined grant value of $7 million.
They believe the community conservation hub model has been successful. They have a strong focus on building good relationships with communities, landowners and other key partners and are on track with the delivery of major projects.
Mrs Davies said receiving funding for the hub services is hard – TET are requesting $75,000 annually from the Council for the hub services. They were recently successful in securing a significant three year grant from the Rata Foundation to help cover core operating costs but they want to see a serious contribution from DoC and the Council towards the hub.
In response to a question, $28,000 was contributed this financial year from Tasman District Council which is quite a significant jump.
In response to a question, all of the projects have different timeframes but the longest is a five year project – some are finishing this year.
In response to a question, they are including a portion of overheads out of the larger grants that are starting to contribute more towards their overheads.
In response to a question, Rata Foundation are contributing $170,000 a year over the next three years.
Dr Fiona Ede on behalf of Tasman Environmental Trust (TET) (27732)
Dr Ede spoke about one of the projects that TET is currently involved in called Core and Restore: Enhancing Estuaries in Te Tau Ihu which focuses on blue carbon which is carbon stored in coastal and marine ecosystems. She tabled a document regarding this project. The project has a range of partners and requests $50,000 from the Council in the current financial year to support project development and core sampling and analysis.
Dr Ede said by protecting and restoring our blue carbon stores within ecosystems we have the potential to earn blue carbon credits. The Nature Conservancy currently has a feasibility study underway to determine how possible it is to get a blue carbon credit scheme up and running in New Zealand – if it’s feasible, there could be a local scheme within the next two to three years.
In response to a question, the advantage of knowing what your blue carbons stocks are, if someone buys a blue carbon credit then that money can be reinvested in more restoration. It frees up a pool of money from a range of agencies that then becomes available to do the ground work.
In response to a question about who owns the credits, it is part of the feasibility study that the Nature Conservancy is undertaking which is around the ownership and legalities around the credits.
Lewis Solomon (27370)
Mr Solomon tabled ‘the Holdco proposal’.
He said he supported Option D for recovering the irrigators share of the funding cost overruns on the Waimea Community Dam and that irrigators should be picking up the majority of the costs. He presented a powerpoint presentation and ran through the different models. He said a project campaign with the community was run and 84% went for Option D.
In response to a question, one of the differences between Option C and D is that Option C loads some of the costs onto irrigators and they would get no benefit from the dam so why should they pay anything.
He said that we should have a contingency of 40% of the value of the remaining work (approx. $30 million). These are based on the history of some of the projects.
A morning tea adjournment was taken from 10.52 am to 11.05 am
Nick Whalley on behalf of Insurance Council of New Zealand (ICNZ) (27185) via Zoom
Mr Whalley, Regulatory Affairs Manager, spoke about ICNZ’s views regarding the role they see local government plays in climate change. Their submission is a generic submission that they’ve given to all local councils in New Zealand:
- they see there is a role for Local Government in avoiding developing in areas vulnerable to flooding, sea level rises etc;
- collaboration and coordination in climate change - understanding risks;
- identifying and filling gaps in local knowledge about climate change;
- prioritising climate change mitigation and adaption in planning and investment decisions;
- ensuring buildings are resilient to climate change impacts;
- supporting vulnerable groups or areas particularly adversely impacted by climate change.
Mr Whalley commended the Council, in particular, for their work on sea level rise and flood inundation matters.
He briefly touched on insurance – ensure insurance remains available and affordable. If the risk is too extreme, insurance won’t have a role and premiums would increase.
In response to a question about if we are proactive and tax our ratepayers more, sometimes it seems like we don’t get any benefit for that, Mr Whalley said that those sentiments are shared with insurers as well - whether or not you’re being proactive on resolving the issue, the important thing is identifying it.
Pic Picot (28321)
Mr Picot said he lives in Nelson and has a house in Marahau. He doesn’t drive but he does think our use of motor cars is one of the few ways as consumers we are able to reduce our emissions by making less use of vehicles. There are no footpaths in Marahau which lead to the community or go to the beach. The separation between cars and pedestrians isn’t very good.
There is a push to have the road bridge before the entrance to the Park closed for pedestrians and have a separate pedestrian bridge. Mr Picot believes we need a sign on the bridge saying to give way to pedestrians.
Marahau has the opportunity to provide an example of how life could be without encouraging people to drive their motor cars.
In reply to a question, he is unsure about the Marahau community’s support – the Community Association has supported the bridge across the river to get people off the road.
Mr Picot suggested that a car park could be developed on the outskirts of town.
Tim Cook (27308)
Mr Cook spoke about affordable housing. He would like to see changes in greenfield rules and regulations to mandate a significant percentage of medium density development. He doesn’t believe the proposed changes to use the building footprint instead of gross floor area is sufficient to encourage medium density development. He gave an example of the Crescent Street townhouses that were built in the 1990s. Mr Cook is concerned about the Lower Moutere Hills development and isn’t convinced it will be able to provide medium density development without initial geotechnical investigation.
He believes the Port Nelson and the Airport merger is misleading - more debt isn’t going to help us or future generations.
Mr Cook spoke about the proposed revenue and financing policy changes – the projected residential rate increases would see a 53% increase over 10 years. He noted that all other fees and charges are going up.
With regard to the Reserve Financial Contributions, he’d like to see more accountability on the part of the contractors who look after our parks and reserves.
He spoke about climate change and said the main issue appears to be planning on how we best respond to sea level rise and coastal hazards – he is confused about stop banks in certain coastal areas.
Mr Cook talked about the Waimea Community Dam. His understanding is that ratepayers wouldn’t benefit from any electricity generated by the Dam. If it is a community dam, ratepayers should be granted a royalty on any electricity generated to be used for debt repayment and to fund infrastructure development.
In reply to a question, we need more input from the Council to drive the development of townhouses etc.
Catherine Hughson (27573)
Mrs Hughson supports Option D (recovering the irrigators’ share of the funding cost overruns on the Waimea Community Dam). She said it’s a huge disparity that the user should pay and ratepayers are funding more of their fair share. Regarding the shares in the Dam, many small landowners signed up not fully understanding the implications of their small share purchases, particularly regarding target rating of affiliated irrigated properties. Many small landowners chose not to sign up as they could see it was financially unaffordable.
She raised the issue of the Council’s closed workshops and quoted findings from the Office of the Auditor General into the Kaipara District Council wastewater issue. She said there needs to be open and honest communication with the community which does not take place in closed workshops.
Mrs Hughson spoke about the state of the Waimea Plains aquifers and the high level of nitrates in the water.
In response to a question about Option C (rate the unaffiliated landowners), she said it was completely unfair.
Lester Oakes (28022)
Mr Oakes said he benefits daily from Council services and is grateful. He spoke about climate change and his submission supported Option B - delaying expenditure will end up a long term cost.
His submission supports Option D (recovering the irrigators’ share of the funding cost overruns on the Waimea Community Dam). He extracted responses of the submissions and 85% of people supported Option D. Ninety-five percent (95%) of those who responded, rejected Option A. He said the Council needs to seriously consider that level of response.
Tony Gargiulo (29382)
Mr Gargiulo and his wife have a small landholding in Ranzau Road and have lived there for 35 years and grow greenhouse tomatoes. They are very happy for their rates to go towards community projects and facilities that they have no direct benefit. He said the dam will be a whole benefit to the District.
He said Option A is unfair - they bought three shares in the Dam. The capital cost of this was $18,000 and they’ve have had to buy telemetry at $5,000, administration cost per share is $600. He said the targeted rate for the dam will be $1,060 by 2025 with Option A (30% increase in rates). People invested for the good of the community – they weren’t all business decisions.
Mr Gargiulo said they prefer Option B with properties in the zone of benefit paying an additional fixed charge. He urged the Council to come up with a more equitable option.
The meeting adjourned for lunch from 12.00 pm to 12.30 pm
Jackie McNae on behalf of Batton Developments Ltd (29361) Staig & Smith, Paton Rise Ltd (29364) Staig & Smith and Mark & Kim Sutton (29365) Staig & Smith
Ms McNae represented three property owners. Neville Cardiff of Batton Developments and Matt Griffin were also in attendance.
Ms McNae tabled a plan which showed where the properties are located from Paton Road down to Main Road Hope. She gave a background regarding the properties.
In regard to Paton Rise, they are keen to advance the balance area of their land. They need to deal with the HAIL and stormwater issues. If they go ahead in the interim, they’ll need to put in another stormwater basin and that would be a two year timeframe before any sections could be sold. Take us to 2023/2024 so if they put in the interim detention, it would only be operational for two years and then the Council’s system would come online in 2025/2026.
In regard to Batton Developments, the land has potential for well over 100 sections. The Council recently agreed to uplift the deferment of this land. If they are to go ahead with development, in the interim they’d need to do a stormwater detention basin with the same issue above. Another issue is that while there is capacity in the wastewater system, this land can’t be fed by gravity into the system at the moment. A permanent pumpstation is planned for 2025/2026.
Mark and Kim Sutton’s property is adjacent to Main Road Hope and is now zoned residential. They have the same issues as above for stormwater.
They’d like to bring forward the stormwater projects necessary to service this part of Richmond South to Year 3 under the LTP. If this doesn’t happen, provision should be made for a 50% reduction in the development contributions for stormwater enabling the landowners to finance interim stormwater detention.
There are two issues with the Suttons’ land. They’d like to see the permanent wastewater system brought forward. Also, the location for the permanent pumpstation has been identified on the Suttons’ land - there has been no consultation yet. If there are other alternatives, these landowners would like to think that the Council has considered those.
In response to a question, if the work is done earlier then that would meet the concerns raised above.
In response to a question, there was a meeting late last year with Council staff regarding the water and the programme was outlined. Staff encouraged landowners in Richmond South to participate in this process.
In response to a question, in regard to the Paton Rise development there is not a design for their balance area but they have an interest in giving consideration to an area of their site for higher density. Battons Development land would consider whether they are doing the development (100 sections in the 500-600 m2 area) but the market is looking for smaller than that. The Suttons’ landholding is a fantastic opportunity for development which shows density.
They spoke about greenway development in the area.
It was advised that both landowners and developers should talk to Kainga Ora in regard to affordable housing.
Jane du Feu on behalf of Te Tau Ihu o Te Waka Māori Cultural Council (29028)
Ms du Feu presented a powerpoint presentation about the national kapa haka events that our region is hosting from now until 2026.
The Mana Kura Tahi event in November 2021 is expecting 10,000 spectators, the Kapa Haka Kura Tuarua event in July 2024 is expecting 12,000 spectators and the Te Matatini event in February 2026 is expecting 25,000 spectators.
She outlined the cultural impact of the national kapa haka events. There is an opportunity for strengthening community partnerships to make the events successful. Ms du Feu also outlined the benefits to local businesses and organisations.
Murray King on behalf of Kingsway Farms Ltd (29331)
Mr King spoke on behalf of his family farm. He said the Waimea Community Dam is a legacy project that is designed to last for 100 years. He said irrigators were asked to contribute to funding the gap some time ago and it was pointed out that that would be a difficult position for many. Had irrigators known of these overruns they wouldn’t have invested – they are partners in this project and should be treated as such.
Mr King said the current project is still cheaper than the next best alternative. The project is important and they are happy to pay their share. Personally, Mr King doesn’t agree with any of the proposals and would like to see a hybrid of them. He doesn’t agree with the 30% of targeted rate spread the cost over the whole rateable base.
In response to a question, if irrigators hadn’t oversubscribed the project wouldn’t have happened.
Julie Nevin and Joanna Santa-Barbara on behalf of Nelson Tasman Climate Forum (28474)
Mrs Nevin presented a powerpoint highlighting the value of the Forum and the importance of ongoing operational funding. She said the Forum needs more resources – the more funding they receive, the more they can achieve.
She thanked the Council for their support over the last year.
Ms Santa-Barbara encouraged the Council to consider measuring regional emissions. She suggested how the Council could do more and save money at the same time. We need detailed and timely measurements of regional emissions alongside the measures of Council operational emissions. The Council could resort to Steps New Zealand, or include in-house use of the Ministry of Environment’s Guide of Measuring Emissions (which would bring the skills inside the Council). This could create a part time job instead of contracting outside. The third option would be to employ a specialist agency.
In response to a question, the forum does not get any funding from central government. They have received funding from Nelson City Council, Rata Foundation and will apply to Ministry for the Environment.
Peter Verstappen and John McLean on behalf of Waimea South Community Centre Steering Group (29283)
Mr Verstappen and Mr McLean tabled a copy of their submission which supported the provision in the current LTP to build a community facility in the Brightwater/Wakefield area. They represent a group of Wakefield residents who are working towards building a new community centre.
The Wakefield Community Council has approved funding of up to $20,000 from its reserves to support the work of the steering group who meet monthly.
They have begun the process of registering their group as a charitable trust, establishing key partnerships, engaging the community, consulting with iwi, gathering ideas, developing a fundraising plan and conducting a feasibility study (in partnership with the Council).
In response to a question, they plan to have a strategic event which will involve key stakeholders and they will explore the idea of a survey.
In response to a question, in his personal submission Mr Verstappen said he would love to see the project brought forward into Year 4-5 of the LTP but the steering group aren’t unhappy where it sits at the moment.
In response to a question, Mr Verstappen said the Wakefield Hall is not fit for purpose.
A Councillor noted the possibility of placing a library at the facility as well. Mr Verstappen has had contact with Wakefield Medical Centre and they are looking at their future too.
In response to a question, there is motivation in Wakefield to raise money.
Brent Ferretti (27040)
Mr Ferretti spoke about the proposed targeted rate for the Waimea Community Dam. As a small grower, he bought one share and feels that the targeted rate isn’t taking into consideration usage – it’s rather to do with the value of property rather than water usage. He doesn’t require a lot of water but now he’s going to be charged for quite a lot extra. He thinks that we should approach the Government again for some more support.
He was asked if he was aware that the Council can only rate on land value or capital value, can’t rate on shareholding.
Duncan Gardiner (27412)
Mr Gardiner, who has a kiwifruit orchard, spoke about the Waimea Community Dam cost overruns. He supports the dam and Option B. He outlined how much his kiwifruit business earns. He bought three dam shares. With the overruns and if irrigators have to pay, it will no longer be economical for him to take the risk. The irrigators supported the dam and bought shares. He talked about urban development.
In response to a question, he doesn’t believe that subdivisions would have been built unless the dam went ahead.
Carrie Mozena on behalf of The Nelson Tasman Housing Trust (NTHT) (28773)
Ms Mozena said that NTHT want to build more houses because they know the level of need for affordable housing. In this region there are a lot of low income workers and they need places to live and our economy depends on those people. The main barrier facing NTHT in Tasman is access to land. There are covenants that restrict who is able to purchase and who is able to build which has a roll on effect. They want to build in comprehensive developments (three, six or eight modest homes on one site which reduces the cost).
If central government does succeed in the reform of the RMA, there could be provision for inclusionary zoning which would allow councils to require a small percentage of the value of any new housing development to be focused on affordable housing by community housing providers. She urged the Council to support inclusionary zoning.
In response to a question, because of the covenants the developers are using in the new developments, they are prevented from purchasing (some say no public housing) or they require only one dwelling per site.
In response to a question, NTHT have had a lot of discussions with developers.
Patricia Palmer (29391)
Mrs Palmer said in everything that the Council does, make sure we aren’t leaving people behind - not only in regard to technology. Most of the seats in the District are too low, you can’t get out of them.
She has talked to people in the community that don’t feel part of the community - some can’t access the Council’s website.
The Golden Bay Grandstand and Motueka Pool timelines worry her - she just wants them to happen.
She asked the Council to help people in the new subdivisions to be resilient and if street names were painted on the kerbs, it would be helpful.
Mrs Palmer feels uneasy about the closed submissions from the Port and Airport.
She said before allocating any future resources to Kohatu Park she’d like the Council to ask themselves who will legally own the fixed assets when the land lease expires.
Richard Johns (27254)
Mr Johns spoke about the Waimea Community Dam overruns and supports Option D that user pays. He said a lot of people feel they aren’t being taken into consideration. He talked about the Wanaka Airport decision which is now not going ahead because of the Courts decision. He said Councillors need to listen to ratepayers and take consideration of those few who are vulnerable and aren’t here today and that the Council isn’t responsible for business decisions.
An afternoon tea adjournment was taken from 2.32 pm to 2.57 pm
Christian Lang (27552)
Mr Lang spoke about the Waimea Community Dam cost overruns. He owns a 250 acre farm in Redwood Valley. He said two years ago he didn’t oppose the construction of the dam but did oppose the funding method. He can’t afford the increases in the funding method proposed. They are only using the water for livestock, not irrigation. His main concern is the water supply charges. In 2010 his water charges were around $1,800 and now they’re about $5,900 and according to Council’s projections going forward it will be $11,500 annually.
He asked that the Council pushes back on the new government regulations and keeps capital expenditure to a minimum. He asked Councillors to please keep the rates down. He had some ideas for farmers – to keep the first unit for domestic water at the normal rate and additional units at a lower rate, perhaps introducing some meters to only pay for the water that is used and to review the rural water schemes.
Andrea Russ (27873)
Ms Russ said she was extremely disappointed with the Waimea Community Dam project. She felt she had no choice but to agree to vote yes to the dam at all costs. At the time of signing share contracts with WIL the proposed annual charges seemed high but affordable and now they have nearly doubled. She inherited the land from family who have been on the farm for 140 years. No farmer or orchardist can survive without the water. For a small landowner it’s been a struggle. The benefit of the dam is for all ratepayers and the extra cost should be passed onto all ratepayers. She doesn’t think it has been publicised.
In response to a question, she was aware of possible target rating but no one knew that the cost overruns were going to blow out of proportion.
Barry William Evans (27594)
Mr Evans from Mapua said he supports Option D in regard to the Waimea Community Dam. He doesn’t think ratepayers should cover the commercial industry.
G H Challies (29401)
Mr Challies spoke in relation to Waimea Community Dam funding. He commented on the rating method proposed for options A, C and D – he’s an unaffiliated water user with no shares in the dam. The Council proposed to rate his whole property as affiliated by virtue of the fact that they have granted an affiliated consent to a third party to enable them to irrigate 8.5 ha leased from him for the duration of the lease. He considers it to be a gross injustice and the rate should be charged on the area of land covered by the shares. Unaffiliated water users are not permitted to use the water from the dam – the rating system should be fair and just.
It was noted that currently Option C isn’t being proposed as the preferred option. He would be prepared to accept that the areas be covered by the dam shares.
Jo Ellis (29270)
Ms Ellis spoke in relation to the Waimea Community Dam and supports Option D - she is appalled by the overruns. She said some irrigators were frightened into buying shares into the dam.
Ms Ellis has serious concerns about the increase in debt levels. She said we have large areas of infrastructure in the region and knows the water network is falling apart and the roads are a mess. She said it’s predicted there’s going to be a significant storm event in the future and we aren’t going to have any money to fix things.
Ms Ellis acknowledged the small landowners that have bought shares in the Dam. Councillors need to check that the big irrigators don’t miss out on paying their share.
She doesn’t want to amalgamate the Port and Airport into one.
In response to a question, she said the way that the irrigators have brought the shares and got their water rights, it can be tied personally to the land and some of the larger ones have had good legal advice.
Noel Riley (27756)
Mr Riley said everyone needs water but we can’t always supply it at a cost. Central government should be paying for the Waimea Community Dam overruns - it is a community facility which supplies all of the community.
An adjournment was taken from 3.40 pm to 4.00 pm
John Palmer on behalf of Waimea Irrigators Ltd (WIL) (29342)
Mr Palmer said the basic principal for WIL in relation to the Waimea Community Dam is the series of agreements that were signed after negotiation to agree a basis for WIL and the Council to have a business partnership in the Dam. The fundamental parts for WIL in getting to that was an agreement amongst the shareholders that a number of things had to be conceded in order to get a partnership that Council and WIL could live with. He said in all of the documents that were signed, target rating is only referred to once in the contract. The source documents that WIL shareholders relied on was that although it was more expensive than originally planned, their liability would be capped.
He said there are three key areas for the Council to consider in getting an answer to this problem. One is the requirement that we need to continue to have a partnership and need to be pragmatic. There is the role the Council has in running the urban supply and the responsibility to the river and environment. The third audience is the Council’s role as a shareholder in the partnership and the fourth role is to the wider community.
In WIL’s view, target rating is not possible. He said none of the options look attractive – how do we find the least acceptable outcome.
In summary, the principles are important but they are still there. He said the practicality of a targeted rate is unrealistic for all parts of the community. He said finding a way to have a partnership, once we get the dam built must have a cost structure for irrigators that is manageable.
It was noted that Nelson Pine Industries are a WIL shareholder.
Gillian Pollock (29429)
Mrs Pollock said looking after our ecology and ensuring the wellbeing of Tasman fauna and flora will also ensure the health of our communities. The most practical environmental work is done by hundreds of volunteers in the community. She said there are environmental improvements that the Council needs to be involved in such as introducing environmental protective bylaws - we need a cat bylaw with similar controls as a dog bylaw. She said another bylaw is needed to control rampant weed growth on private and public properties – owning property should be regarded as a privilege, and with that privilege goes responsibility.
Roger Bay (29377)
Mr Bay was concerned that the summary in his submission didn’t correctly outline that he wanted a district wide rating approach in relation to the Waimea Community Dam (Option B). He said it’s been a struggle regarding water rates and they signed up to the Dam in good faith. Seeing the district wide targeted rate is very hard for people that have only taken on a handful of shares so they see a huge unfairness in that. He understands that wider community benefits come from one group of ratepayers cross subsidising another. He understands the benefit of the dam will be for the whole community.
He said they wouldn’t have invested if they had known this was going to hit them so heavily.
In response to a question, Mr Bay said the dam costs need to be spread across a wider group of beneficiaries.
An adjournment was taken from 4.28 pm to 4.59 pm
Bruno Lemke on behalf of Mapua & Districts Community Association (29160) MDCA
Mr Lemke spoke about the submission process and that it is MDCA’s belief that group submissions have hardly any more weight than individual submissions which isn’t right. It would be good to gather some meta-data on whether specific submissions primarily come from individuals or groups and which submissions (if any) instigate the Council to change the LTP.
He also talked about infill housing and said we need more housing, not developers making money from large section developments which often causes large area environmental change/damage. In Māpua, infill housing equates to infill subdivisions. The Council should encourage lifestyle section subdivision.
Mr Lemke spoke about stormwater and said that it’s not the Council’s priority. It only becomes a priority after another flooding event. He also said he doesn’t feel that climate change is a priority for the Council.
It was noted that it’s up to Councillors to give weight to all submissions - there is no legal position on that.
Cr Wensley left the meeting at 5.13 pm.
Malcolm Brennan (29050)
Mr Brennan said he would like the Council to support a replacement community boat ramp for the Mapua waterfront of $1.1 million and hopes the timeline is not deferred to the future and that the Council adheres to its time of 2021-2022. A regional boat ramp is achievable, safe, not influenced by tides and is in a good location. He said there are 67 ramps in this area but half of them are unformed and beach access only. The Tamaha Sea Scouts need a boat ramp available for training on a school night.
Cr Wensley returned to the meeting at 5.18 pm.
In response to a question, the Scouts have three cutters which hold six scouts each. The waiting list to become a sea scout is really long.
David Scott on behalf of Tamaha Sea Scouts (29415)
Mr Scott looks after the equipment and boats of the sea scouts and he oversees the future planning. With the standing bylaw it is technically illegal for them to utilise the Māpua Wharf. The Tamaha Sea Scouts will not survive if they don’t have a boat ramp. He tabled a Council future zoning strategy document dated 2003.
The Māpua Boat Club is alarmed that the Council has reduced the budget and decided to delay the completion of construction of a regional boat ramp by an additional five years. He said Tamaha Sea Scouts urges the Council to leave funding for the regional boat ramp at its current level and not to delay making a decision on its location and construction. If the Council decides to build a regional boat ramp elsewhere, the Māpua Boat Club and the Tamaha Sea Scouts will still proceed with their campaign to build a replacement community boat ramp at the Māpua Waterfront Park.
They’ve done a study, and he’s going to launch his boat and take a video to show that there is a big back eddy in that space. They believe that it’s unlikely that the back eddy will change any time soon.
In response to a question, there would be 30 to 40 cars and trailers on any one day at the Māpua Waterfront Park if it was a community boat ramp.
In response to a question, if a boat ramp was to be built, there would need to be more boat ramps built elsewhere because there are so few formed boat ramps in the region and there is always going to be growth.
Michael Crehan (29072)
Mr Crehan is associated with the Māpua Boat Club but is not a member. He said 19 members from the Māpua Fire Brigade also signed Mr Crehan’s submission. Māpua is a major tourist attraction and there is a feeling that such development is at an expense of the local community and issues around the provision of a boat ramp typify that feeling.
If there is going to be a boat ramp built, it would be good if it was in Māpua.
He said the community has lost access to the wharf ramp due to the Council’s commercial development at the Māpua Wharf.
He urges the Council to resist the proposed reduction of the allocation of funding for new boat launching facilities and given the effects of inflation and time that has lapsed, to increase the money allocated. The Council should be pressing staff with this matter and not wait another five years.
Debbie Lavery (29058)
Mrs Lavery is a business owner at Jellyfish Café in Māpua and is the vice chairperson at the Māpua Community Association. The Council has done a great job at creating a tourist destination. Māpua needs a boat ramp and the area proposed at Waterfront Park is ideal. The growth of Māpua and the current car parking area for the cars and trailers is zoned residential and therefore there is a risk that the area could be sold off and then there is no car parking. There is an opportunity for revenue to create parking meters.
The Council should be really proud of the area – she said it’s awesome.
In response to a question, Mrs Lavery tells people to go to Kaiteriteri or Rabbit Island to launch their boat.
In response to a question, the carpark is not coping at the moment. No one is using the paddock – you could fit 100 cars in there. People launch their boats early in the day.
Trevor Marshall (29059)
Mr Marshall is a member of the Māpua Boat Club. He supports the proposals from the Club. The land is there at the moment so there wouldn’t be a cost. The Motueka boat ramp cannot expand any further so the opportunity of expanding that is gone. Having to drive to Motueka to launch his boat is ridiculous.
He said having multiple local boat ramps is better, in the event of an earthquake. Grossi Point is not the right place to launch.
The majority of the community is supportive of a launching area.
In response to a question about how the Māpua community would feel about raising 30% of any boat ramp, Mr Marshall doesn’t think it would be a problem.
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That the Council continues with the meeting beyond the prescribed maximum duration of six hours, in accordance with Standing Order 4.2. |
Barry Evans (27594)
Mr Evans spoke about the Māpua boat ramp.
The Mayor and Cr Hill left the meeting at 6.00 pm.
Mr Evans said in 2004 the Council employed a consultant and he provided a copy of the site redemption progress report. He said Māpua already had a boat ramp but the Council took it away. He said Māpua is still a registered port with no access to water.
Mr Evans said in 2004 one of the questions raised was what do the neighbours think about a boat ramp being beside their property (where the current car park is now) and the person was accommodating. There has been no reason for the delay.
Māpua has always been limited for launching a boat – Grossi Point is really hard to launch from.
The meeting adjourned at 6.07 pm
The meeting reconvened on Wednesday 5 May 2021 at the Golden Bay Recreation Park Centre, Takaka at 10.00 am
Present: Mayor
T King, Deputy Mayor S Bryant, Councillors C Butler, B Dowler, C Hill, K
Maling, D McNamara, C Mackenzie, D Ogilvie, T Tuffnell, A Turley and
T Walker
In Attendance: Chief
Executive (J Dowding), Community Development Manager
(S Edwards), Corporate Services Manager (M Drummond), Environment &
Planning Manager (D Bush-King), Executive Assistant to the Mayor
(R Scherer), Customer Services Officer – Team Leader (J McAlinden) and
Graduate Policy Adviser (J Nguyen)
Apologies were noted from Councillors D Wensley and M Greening.
Mayor King re-opened the meeting at 10.00 am. He thanked those in attendance for submitting to the Long Term Plan and making themselves available to speak to the Council. Mayor King presented the opening karakia.
Submissions Heard
Iona Jelf (29340)
Ms Jelf spoke about two issues from her submission; that the Waimea Community Dam should be user pays and the lack of affordable housing. She said that tiny houses on wheels are the most popular choice to address homelessness but there is a question about where they can be located. Tiny homes are not buildings but they are classified as such in the TRMP if they are occupied. Landowners are reluctant to host tiny houses because of the other services required, water, wastewater etc. She urged the Council to make provision for tiny houses to address the housing crisis with some urgency.
It was suggested that the current housing initiative being developed in Takaka could explore the option of locating tiny homes.
Ms Jelf said that the problem is great across the whole of the Tasman District.
In response to a question, Ms Jelf said she accepts that if the TRMP rules were changed, tiny homes would still have to hold a self-contained certificate.
Nigel Lloyd on behalf of Pakawau Community Residents Assn (27331)
Mr Lloyd spoke about nurturing community wellbeing and meeting the community’s changing needs. He said that he was attending today to make sure that the Pakawau community is heard and that the community’s aspirations are included in the Long Term Plan.
Mr Lloyd spoke about the recent decision to not allow a local board for Golden Bay and suggested that meant that all decisions in the Long Term Plan will be made centrally, with no decision making opportunities for Golden Bay to make their own decisions and priorities.
He urged the Council to make a clear statement in the Long Term Plan about the Golden Bay Community Board and how they can identify and action projects specific to the Golden Bay Ward. Mr Lloyd suggested that the activity management plans are centrally driven, with big picture projects that soak up resources and leave nothing for the remote communities.
Each ward should be listed and expectations identified and the plans for those expectations. We need to have our slice of the pie identified. We all contribute to the wellbeing of the Tasman District.
Mr Lloyd spoke about a Pakawau community request in 2015 for the Council to slow down traffic in Puponga; this has still not happened.
Mr Lloyd also asked that the Council offer easier consent processes so individuals can self-fund coastal protection measures. He asked why landowners cannot put in our own rock walls to protect their own properties. He believes the Council is saying “Do as we say, not do as we do”.
Mr Lloyd asked that the Council increase staff numbers in the areas of compliance and enforcement to ensure that existing bylaws are enforced.
Responding to a question about the Council’s “settlement” plans, Mr Lloyd said that these documents don’t link to the Council’s strategic priorities.
Cynthia McConville on behalf of Mohua (Golden Bay) Blue Penguin Trust (27417)
Ms McConville spoke about her request for the Council to provide funding of $23,500 towards fencing off of the environmental precinct at Port Tarakohe. She noted that the Mohua Penguin Trust has grown, community support has been remarkable with over 4000 volunteer hours to date. The Trust has installed 300 tiny homes for penguins. She noted that Port Tarakohe holds the most significant population of little blue penguins, 200 and growing with last year’s breeding programme the most successful with 90% of eggs for chicks.
Ms McConville said that the Trust’s submission was supported by iwi.
She circulated a photo of a dead penguin that had been attacked by dogs in the blue penguin area and spoke about the damage that dogs cause. She said that dog owners ignore the signage in the area.
She spoke about the Trust’s proposal to install a penguin viewing room which would help in conserving the penguins and would be both a community science project and ecotourism operation.
In response to a question about other funding avenues, Ms McConville said that the Trust was constantly looking at funding options. It was suggested that the Trust could also apply for funding from the Council’s Community Grants Fund.
Nigel Birse (28744)
Mr Birse tabled a document in support of his submission. He urged the Council to make provision for residents and visits to be able to walk unhindered within the Collingwood township. He spoke about the local area roads being dominated by cars with Haven Road being a major issue with parked cars hindering access for pedestrians. He also noted an area where public land is being used as a private jetty.
Mr Birse said that there was no clear plan for a safe walking space or reasonable access to Collingwood’s prime views. Residents would like basic segregation for vehicles from the roadside walking space. Currently the area is dangerous with pedestrians walking on the road edge between parked cars and moving traffic.
He asked the Council to create and implement a plan to provide a connection between existing walkways, to provide a destination and a loop around the town.
He also asked that the Council to ensure that walking access is provided to prime locations on public land. He said that the community has been waiting for 30 years for a management plan for the local reserve area as currently parts of the public land is blocked to the public.
He requested that the Council unblock and enhance the access boat ramp to Haven Road; this is public land that has been encroached by private properties. He noted that Gibbs Road includes a steep narrow walking path but a shipping container on road reserve hinders public access. Also requested that the Council shift the “Welcome to Collingwood” sign as currently pedestrians have to go around it.
Mr Birse suggested that currently vehicles drive in to Collingwood but can’t see anything so they turn around and go away.
In response to a question, Mr Birse said that he had spoken to the Golden Bay Community Board about this issue but this was the first time he had submitted to the Council’s Long Term Plan about this issue.
Frank Susko and Karen Johnson on behalf of Golden Bay Museum Te Waka Huia o Mohua (28758)
Mr Susko and Ms Johnson said that the Golden Bay Museum’s aim is to celebrate and explore the communities heritage. While the Trust appreciates the ongoing support from the Council they don’t currently have sufficient resources to provide a museum service.
Mr Susko said that the Council needs to start discussions on appropriate levels of funding for the District’s museums. The Trust doesn’t have enough money to be the curators of the Golden Bay museum.
The current building lacks working space, meeting space or even an area to sit down and have a cuppa. He said that there is an opportunity to gain more space in the current building but this will cost an extra $8,000k per year. The Trust is also asking the Council for $4500 for staff time to open and close the museum. Currently, there is insufficient staff funding and the staff are unable to keep up with the workload. Mr Susko said that 100+ extra hours of staff time goes unpaid to do the museum’s work.
Mr Susko asked the Council to fund the installation of smoke detectors in the museum building – the Trust has obtained costings to do this at $6300 plus $645 pa for monitoring. He reminded the Councillors that the museum is a Council asset and invited them to visit the Museum.
In response to a question, Ms Johnson said that the Trust applies for community grant funding each year. They also apply for funding from other organisations for their ongoing costs.
In response to a question, Ms Johnson said that the Trust is requesting $60,000 for staff and payroll and $45,000 to enable more staff hours.
Mr Susko said that the museum had struggled for 30 odd years. He said that the current building is not fit for purpose and does not have enough space.
Amanda Clarke (28978)
Ms Clarke spoke about her disappointment and frustration with the Council and staff regarding diverse people in Tasman District. She said that she is constantly disappointed with the Council’s values, its lack of transparency and accountability. She said that good governance and decision making will prevail and urged the Council to meet the best interests of the community as a whole. She said that the Waimea Community Dam project is exploiting an uneven playing field between irrigators and ratepayers and is stacked to the irrigators advantage. She said that the fairest funding option is Option D.
Franca Morani (29253)
Ms Morani was unable to attend. Penny Griffiths said that Ms Morani has asked her to tell the hearing that she was against the Waimea Community Dam and the Council asking all ratepayers to pay for it.
Louise Coleman (29007)
Ms Coleman requested an independent investigation into the Waimea Community Dam. She said that the dam project soaks up too much money and staff time and that irrigators should pay 72% of all the dam costs.
She said that ratepayers are paying more than they should. She also spoke about issues with the bed of reservoir and suggested that operational costs will also increase especially insurance.
She said the Council should look at other funding options as laid out in the legislation. She suggested that the Council should represent those who sit on the poverty line and people who have no voice and to choose option D. Why should ratepayers subsidise more. Irrigators should pay for their share of cost increases. User pays should be who pays for the dam.
She asked the Council to vote on the dam project from a community perspective, not on irrigator perspective. She also suggested that it is not a given that costs will transfer to the three-waters regulator. She urged the Council to vote for Option D.
Ms Coleman referred to the proposal for a holding company for the port and airport. She said that the proposal will hide the true cost implications of the dam and is a pretence. She suggested that both the airport and port already provide cost effective and affordable services.
In response to a question about the dam people who are included in the Zone of Benefit who won’t benefit from water extraction but who pay a lot more, Ms Coleman said that people should have investigated the business model at their own risk.
Robert and Joan Butts (29093) Port Tarakohe Limited
Mrs Joan Butts presented to the Council on behalf of Port Tarakohe Limited.
She spoke about the development of the area between the port and Ligar Bay and the ever growing debt accumulated against the port. She urged the Council to separate the community beneif of the port from the commercial part of the business.
Mrs Butts suggested that the Council needs a spatial plan for development of the area from Pohara to Ligar Bay. She said that the indicative roads and walkways included in the proposed Plan Change 73 would render some of the land incapable of reasonable use.
Staff had been advised that some of the indicative walkway would be impossible to navigate but it is still included on the plan. She said that the indicative road is also incorrect and needs to be in the right place.
Mrs Butts said that consultation is not about just ticking a box and she urged the Council to visit the area and to see what needs to be done now so that the plan is not deferred again.
She said that Council staff need to identify a direction and policy for the area that aligns with the RMA. There is no community water supply, the wastewater infrastructure is oversubscribed, there is no road resilience, growing traffic volumes, including mussel trucks and rampant residential development that does not have the required infrastructure.
Mrs Butts said that the Council needs to recognise the impacts of growth in mussel farming in the area. She urged the Council to not look at upgrading Port Tarakohe in isolation but to include the adjacent communities and to include funding in the LTP for a spatial plan.
Jill Margaret Pearson (29290)
Ms Pearson said that the Council needs to take the bull by the horns with climate change; she said that the Council has the opportunity to do something about it now.
She spoke about the importance of governance and decision-making and said the Council should be accountable and responsible for its actions. She said that if things go wrong, the Council needs to investigate this issue. This is not about blame but accountability.
Ms Pearson spoke about the Council being good ancestors. She suggested a 300 year plan would be preferential to a ten year plan.
She spoke about population management and suggested that the world is not an infinite resource. She suggested that it is our responsibility is to manage the land appropriately for future generations.
Ms Pearson spoke about the Waimea Community Dam and suggested that the Council should live within its means and set a good example for the younger generation.
She said that everyone is custodians of the area and we need to make sure the people of the future can enjoy it too.
In response to a question, Ms Pearson said that people need to understand that we can’t keep growing and growing.
Gordon Mather (29296)
Mr Mather said that he was speaking both personally and as a member of the local astronomy group. He said that he is opposed to the funding formula for the Waimea Community Dam which he believes has no direct benefit to many in Tasman. He said that the user pays principle should apply and that the dam should have been done by central government, not the Council.
Mr Mather said that he supports an independent review of the dam project including a reworking of the cost apportionment and that he favours Option D.
Mr Mather spoke about artificial light which is negative to many creatures and plants. He said that artificial light affects nocturnal creatures and nature in general. He spoke about the importance of preserving dark sky areas, the value of dark sky regions, the biological impacts of artificial lighting and the need for any lighting to be used wisely.
He said that lighting should only be used when it is needed, it should be no brighter than necessary, and that blue light should be minimised and pointed downward. He said that LEDs are transforming our cities.
He spoke about the adverse effects of blue light on people, wildlife behaviour and reproduction. He noted that the International Dark Sky Association recommends fully shielded light fixtures that emit no light upwards, dimming lights, motion sensors, timers and networking. He gave an example of the Golden Bay Recreation Park flood lights that shine on the highway and cause a distraction for night drivers and urged the Council to better shield street lights in Takaka and at the recreation ground.
It was noted that lighting is part of the ongoing Tasman Environment Plan review.
Liz Thomas (29335)
Ms Thomas spoke about climate change. She said that we’ve known about climate change for many years and people are starting to realise that it is an emergency. She noted her support for Option B for more investment in climate change now.
She also said that every Council decision should consider climate change. This includes replacing the Council fleet with e-vehicles which should be done immediately.
She asked the Council to encourage more e-vehicles and charging points in the district; to encourage more active transport, e-bikes for staff in Richmond and more safe walking and cycling areas.
She spoke about the success of the new Pohara cycle way and asked the Council to ensure that any road works should include provisions for walking and cycling. She said that any public transport supported by the Council should be cheap, frequent and appropriate in size. She noted her support for local public transport initiatives such as the taxi service in Māpua.
Ms Thomas noted her involvement with the Golden Bay Housing Trust and said that the can help by facilitating housing initiatives. She also encouraged housing on poor quality rural land and the option of multi-unit housing. She said that the Council should reduce or cut development levies. She supports Option A for housing choice.
Ms Thomas spoke about the Waimea Community Dam. She suggested that people are fed up with the escalating dam project costs and asked the Council to carry out a thorough review of the project. She said that the Council should let the irrigators finish the dam project. She supports Option D for the dam cost overruns.
Ms Thomas referred to the management of waste and in particular, toxic waste such as sheep dips. She asked the Council to ensure regulations are in place to deal with these issues.
She suggested that the port and airport management should be left as it is.
In closing, Ms Thomas told the Councillors that they are doing a reasonable job.
Elizabeth McCarthy (29357)
Beth McCarthy spoke of her support for Option 1 for the Homes for the Community. She said that the Council should encourage smaller landholdings and also make land available for tiny homes. She said that in actively encouraging housing initiatives, the Council does not need to break the rules but it should be open to other options.
In terms of the Waimea Community Dam, Ms McCarthy said that ratepayers cannot afford to finance a scheme that benefits a few who can then claim their costs back. She said that the dam would mean increased borrowing and hence increased rates.
She also said that the Council should carry on with business as usual initiatives, ie, footpaths and road maintenance. She also said that the Council should use electric vehicles in its fleet.
A lunch adjournment was taken from 11.57am and the meeting reconvened at the Golden Bay Service Centre at 1.30 pm
The following submitters spoke via Zoom
Brent Maru on behalf of the Motueka Community Board (28818)
Mr Maru spoke about the Homes for our Community and noted that the Motueka Community Board supports option 2 but this should not be done at a cost to residential zoning in Motueka West. He said that the tiny home concept is strong in Motueka but was disappointed that there was no emphasis on that option being considered in the LTP.
Mr Maru said that the Motueka Community Board supports Option C for the Waimea Community Dam cost overruns. The Board believes that Option C removes some liability from Motueka ratepayers.
Mr Maru expressed his disappointment that the Council did not foreshadow significant rate increases. He said that he had lost faith in the Council’s management of the dam contract and asked where would the cost overruns end.
Regarding the options for a holding company for Port Nelson and the Nelson Airport, Mr Maru suggested that economies of scale don’t always mean benefits. While both are key gateway companies to our region, he is not sure the proposal will provide any savings or benefits. However, he added that the proposal is worth exploring.
Mr Maru said that the Community Board support Option B for climate change. He suggested that climate change needs to be taken seriously now before the community faces long term costs.
Mr Maru thanked the Council for supporting and advocating on behalf of the community for the roading improvements on SH60 (High Street, Motueka). However, he noted that there was no reference to any beautification projects for Motueka in the LTP. He said that beautifying for SH60 is a priority for the Community Board. He also noted that the improvements to SH60 will result in the loss of nearly 40 car parks and the Board is keen to work with the Council to find alternative parking arrangements in Motueka.
Mr Maru noted the extraordinary cost increase for the Motueka firefighting rate.
Chris Rowse on behalf of Project De-Vine (26754)
Mr Rowse noted that Project De-Vine was a voluntary group which started in Golden Bay over 15 years ago. Since then the group has grown significantly. The group receives $11,250 from the Council for operating expenses as well as grants from the Rata Foundation and one other philanthropic family.
Mr Rowse indicated his intention to retire from his active role and to move on to chair the Trust. The group would like to replace him with a General Manager or Project Manager, however this would require extra funding. While the group has a contract arm that carries out contract work for the Council, DoC, LINZ and Project Janszoon, it still needs extra funding.
Mr Rowse said that the group of volunteers had achieved fantastic gains controlling a range of weed species in Golden Bay and at Marahau and he believes that with the funding they have they are providing good value while at the same doing good for the environment.
In response to a question, Mr Rowse said that the group actively seeks qualified advice from the Council and DoC.
In response to a question, Mr Rowse said that there was a small administration component of his current role with Project De-Vine.
It was suggested that the Project De-Vine group could look at merging with another entity such as the Tasman Environment Trust which would allow them to grow and to share their costs. In response, Mr Rowse said that they hadn’t thought of that option. However, he noted that Project De-Vine do keep their systems lean and that more than half of their operating costs are covered by the contracts they complete.
Mr Rowse also noted that the group had invested in a new mapping system which is inter-operable with the Council. The group is able to share their data with the biosecurity team who receive quality mapping of the areas where Project De-Vine is working.
Cheryl Elsey on behalf of Golden Bay Promotions Association (29465)
Ms Elsey said that the Golden Bay Promotions Association was seeking to increase the funding provided from the Council from $30k to $40 per year. She noted that the Association has been in operation for 38 years and many of the committee members and team are volunteers.
The group aims to make Golden Bay an all year round visitor destination. She suggested that first time visitors always look at the visitor information centre and the Golden Bay centre averages 400 visitors per day. However, she also noted that the centre is competing with online booking systems.
Ms Elsey spoke about tourism as a major contributor to the Golden Bay economy which is estimated to be 20% of GDP.
However, the Centre is not represented on the Tourism NZ website as they see the Golden Bay Visitors Centre as part of Nelson and Motueka.
Ms Elsey said that the group does get good support from NRDA.
She encouraged the Council to continue to fund the visitor centres in Tasman.
In response to a question, Ms Elsey confirmed that the visitor centre was not an i-Site. She added that the i-Site model required 24-hours operation.
Mayor King said that he would write a letter to Tourism NZ regarding the visitor centre not being included on their website.
Roger Frost (29386)
Mr Frost said that the Council’s LTP Consultation Document had been useful. He suggested that while the Council needs to concentrate on its business as usual it also needs to plan for unforeseen events, eg Covid-19 or a rupture of the Alpine Fault.
Mr Frost spoke about population growth which he believes results in private benefit at a large public cost. He said that the Council should ask itself that are the best immigration policies for New Zealand, what effect do they have on our day to day lives and the Council’s activities. He suggested that the Council needs to have strong input into the Ministry of Immigration’s investigation.
Mr Frost said that he believed the benefits of economic growth also contribute to environmental degradation. He supports the concept of a circular economy.
He also commented that what is economically sustainable might not be environmentally sustainable and vice versa.
He said that while housing is a big issue it needs to relate to demand, eg the contribution from immigration issues. He believes that all agricultural productive land should be retained.
He did not see the holding company for the Nelson Airport and Port Nelson as a big issue.
He asked the Council to urge central government to take stronger action on climate change.
The meeting adjourned at 2.12 pm.
Cr Hill presented the closing karakia.
The meeting reconvened on Thursday 6 May 2021 at the Tasman District Council Chambers, Richmond at 12.30 pm
Present: Mayor
T King, Deputy Mayor S Bryant, Councillors C Butler, B Dowler,
M Greening, C Hill, K Maling, C Mackenzie, D Ogilvie, T Tuffnell, A
Turley,
T Walker and D Wensley
In Attendance: Community Development Manager (S Edwards), Corporate Services Manager (M Drummond), Environment & Planning Manager (D Bush-King), Engineering Services Manager (R Kirby), Executive Assistant (R Scherer) and Executive Support Officer (G Drummond)
Deputy Mayor, Stuart Bryant re-opened the meeting at 12.30 pm and invited Councillor Christeen Mackenzie to present the karakia.
The Deputy Mayor noted that the Mayor was an apology for lateness as he was at Nelson City Council presenting the Council’s submission to their long term plan.
It was noted that a further late submission had been received.
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Moved Cr Mackenzie/Cr Tuffnell That the Submissions Hearing accepts another late submission received between 25 and 30 April 2021 as follows:
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5 Confidential Session
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5.1 Procedural motion to exclude the public |
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5.2 Nelson Airport Limited and Port Nelson Limited submissions
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The open meeting commenced at 1.35 pm
Submissions Heard
Wayne Mackey (28171)
Mr Mackey used a powerpoint presentation to speak to his submission. He said that he favoured Option D to meet the Waimea Dam cost overruns and that he believes there is no rational reason why irrigators should not fund their fair share. Mr Mackey questioned the final cost of the dam and asked who would pay for any further cost overruns. He also questioned the dam hydrology and stability. Mr Mackey also spoke in support of an inquiry into the dam.
Mr Mackey said that he did not believe the Council should be involved in electricity generation.
He noted his concerns about the growth in staff numbers and suggested that the Council is already overstaffed. He also believes that with more staff the Council will require more accommodation. Growth in staff numbers will also impact on all day parking which is already stressed in Richmond. He suggested that the Council should carry out a fully independent review of its productivity and efficiency.
Mr Mackey would like to see amalgamation between the two councils which he believes will result in efficiency gains.
Mr Mackey also spoke about staff salaries, the Council’s debt cap, debt servicing costs and the new holding company proposed for the Nelson Airport and Port Nelson.
Mayor King joined the meeting at 1.47 pm.
Cr Wensley left the meeting at 1.50 pm.
Leslie Howard Cook (28190)
Mr Cook read his submission verbatim.
Cr Maling left the meeting at 1.58 pm.
Sue Lindsay (27688)
Ms Lindsay said she was frustrated to see the pest and weed infestation in Richmond. She noted that Keep Richmond Beautiful do a good job but they can’t keep on top of the problem. Ms Lindsay also spoke about the Lack of toilet facilities in Easby Park; she said that the nearest toilet is at Washbourn Gardens. She said that she had found piles of human excrement beside Easby Park which is a public health issue. She suggested that the Council could install se a DoC type toilet in the interim.
Ms Lindsay said that the only viable option for the Waimea Dam is option is D. The other options are very unfair. She said that ratepayers already pay a water rate and a general rate and ratepayers will subsidise private companies who benefit from the dam. She suggested that people can’t afford more rates and that some of the irrigator owners don’t even live in the region. She said that ratepayers in Golden Bay, Murchison and Motueka should not have to pay for the dam.
Jean Linda Gorman (28950)
Ms Gorman used a powerpoint presentation. She advised the Council that she is a scientist and geologist and suggested that the Council’s role in climate change is just as important as the science. She urged the Council to listen to the scientists. She spoke about recent developments in Richmond West and the effect of sea level rise.
She also spoke about sea level rise effects in Motueka and the need for planning for managed retreat. She suggested that the future of Motueka lies in developing the Moutere Hills area.
Ms Gorman also referred to the issue of contaminants that are stored at Port Motueka which she believes need to be considered in terms of alternative locations in case of sea level rise. She suggested that an earthquake on the Alpine fault, will happen; it is just a matter of when.
Murray Dawson (28971)
Mr Dawson spoke about the Waimea Community Dam, WIL issues, target rating and irrigator funds. He outlined a solution for managing the dam cost overruns.
Brian Halstead on behalf of Waimea Irrigators (28449) Waimea Irrigators & Water Users Inc
Mr Halstead said that he had opposed the Waimea Community Dam right from the start. He said that the water from the dam will go down the river into the sea without capturing a drop and will not benefit anyone. He noted his support for Option D to manage the dam cost overruns and suggested that rating should be tied to the quantity of the water consent. He referred to the example of the Wai-iti Dam which is rated on measure of water used.
Kevin Walmsley (29075)
Mr Walmsley spoke about the Waimea Community dam and the zone of benefit. He called for an independent investigation. Mr Walmsley said that he prefers Option D for the dam cost overruns. He suggested that the WIL shareholders had made a business decision from the product disclosure statements including the risk of targeted rates and that they can pass on costs to their market.
Mr Walmsley suggested that the Northington report and other reports were misleading and that the 2017 NZIER report was wrong.
Mr Walmsley provided a handout outlining the dam zone of benefit handout. He said that Eban Road and Stringer Road properties should not be in the zone of benefit.
Maxwell Clark (29426)
Mr Clark said he was also speaking on behalf of Shona McBride. Mr Clark supports option d and noted his deep concerns about the alpine fault risk with the Waimea Community Dam. He said that the Tonkin & Taylor report included statements regarding a high risk of inundation if the dam fails. He suggested that the Council should put a halt to the dam so they can get a health and safety report.
He suggested that the Council has no legal obligation to supply water to irrigators and said that WIL are contracted to pay 49% of costs of the dam and they can afford it. He believes that it is unacceptable for general ratepayers to pay for the extra costs. NPI will get their water from the bores fed by the dam, not the local water supply. We cannot afford to pay more, the irrigators should pay their own business expenses.
Mayor King returned to the meeting at 4.07 pm.
Colin Garnett (28980)
Mr Garnett spoke about the Waimea Community dam, debt levels, increases in dam budget. He asked the Council what authority it had to increase funding in the dam. He said that monthly budget versus actual figures were promised, but not delivered.
Cr Hill left the meeting at 2.53 pm.
Mr Garnett suggested that the Council does not have the money to continue to build the dam. He said that the funding should be used on Council infrastructure for roading, water, wastewater and stormwater. He suggested the Council should pause the dam build and cap what has been built to make it safe. Building could continue when the Council has the funding for it. He also suggested that there is a risk to the population of Brightwater if the dam fails.
Cr Hill returned to the meeting at 2.55 pm.
Mr Garnett said that the Council should leave the port and airport as it is. He also said that developers must pay their way and that development contributions are not working. He asked the Council to not allow housing on productive land and to not bail out regional water schemes.
Colin Johnson (28995)
Mr Johnson asked if the Council had a clear mandate on the Waimea Dam. He urged the Council to vote for Option D to manage the dam cost overruns. He noted that 1132 submissions had been received and suggested the Council needs to listen to submitters.
Mr Johnson spoke about target rating; he said that all investors in WIL were advised to get financial advice before they committed to the Waimea Community dam. Irrigators have been well informed including the single shareholders who had a clear indication of the commercial risk. He suggested that irrigators will be able to get tax relief for their investment in the dam but ratepayers don’t get any tax relief. He said that is more than fair that irrigators pay their share, they are the major beneficiaries. He also suggested that the Council have had an exit strategy for the dam.
Philip Wilson on behalf of Nelson Pine Industries (29005)
Mr Wilson said that the stormwater rates for NPI had increased by $40,000 per annum. He spoke about the Penny Farthing stream catchment and the NPI’s inclusion in the urban drainage rating area. NPI had not received any notification when this change was made and had no opportunity for consultation. He said that NPI does not benefit; the company is happy to pay their fair share but it is not correct to be rated for SW drainage where we don’t contribute to costs for Tasman. He noted that the rating is based on the capital value of plant and asked if NPI fit in that zone and what is fair and reasonable to charge for SW.
Mr Wilson said that NPI supports Option D for the Waimea Dam cost overruns. He said that NP has shares in the dam and once the dam is completed, NPI will put down their own bores down and benefit from that water supply.
Mr Wilson agreed that NPI needs to discuss its plans to take water from the dam scheme with the Council and WIL.
Ian MacLennan (29301)
Mr MacLennan suggested that the Council’s net debt cap proposal is seriously concerning and that rating is too high. He suggested that the Council is living well beyond the means of its ratepayers.
He called for an independent inquiry into the Waimea Dam so that errors of judgement and decision making are never made again.
Mr MacLennan spoke about the priority of new houses in Motueka. He suggested that the Council get central government to invest in our region which punches above its wait in economic growth.
He said that the option for managing the Waimea Dam cost overruns perpetuates a massive subsidy for irrigators who make huge profits from private water. He said he was certain that there will be more cost blowouts for the dam.
Mr MacLennan said he supported the Councils preferred option for the holding company for Port Nelson and Nelson Airport and suggested that the Council should consider this model for other key infrastructure. He also called for a single council for Nelson-Tasman.
The meeting adjourned at 3.30 pm and resumed at 3.45 pm
Mayor King left the meeting at 3.30 pm.
Deputy Mayor Bryant assumed the chair
Jan Heijs (29371)
Mr Heijs said that he understands the complexity of Council decision making but said that people need to be given more choices in their preferred options.
Mr Heijs spoke about levels of service and suggested that many included in the LTP documentation are non-specific and are not quantifiable. He said he could not find where the Council currently measures its levels of service; he suggested that the trade-off between LoS and costs needs to be transparent. He said that the Council should include more quantifiable LOS in the nest LTP. Mr Heijs spoke about wastewater overflows; stormwater pollution is not mentioned, it is a key issue. He also referred to water sensitive design and suggested that the Council is not walking the talk and should aspire to good stormwater quality.
He spoke about affordable housing in Mapua and suggested that there is no allowance for downsizing so people have to leave the area. He urged the Council to be courageous and address local needs in terms of housing affordability.
Mr Heijs said the Council needs specific actions to address climate change Climate change slso needs to be clearly funded with clear outcomes. He said he was looking for the Council to change away from business as usuasl and to show 21st century leadership.
R W Sharplin (29389)
Mr Sharplin tabled a document in support of his submission. He said that he had visited the dam site. Mr Sharplin used a piece of excavated rock from the dam site to show the difference with greywacke.
Mr Sharplin spoke in support of Option D, about the geology of the dam site and the lack of reference to the difficulties with geology at the dam site.
Lucinda Blackley-Jimson on behalf of Tasman Bays Heritage Trust (29358)
Ms Blackley-Jimson made a powerpoint presentation. She spoke about the issues with the current building at Isel Park. She urged the Council to support the Trust so that they can make our heritage accessible in the Nelson-Tasman region.
Megan Birss on behalf of Nelson Gymsports Collective (28547)
Maxine Noar, Richard Carruthers and Megan Birss provided a powerpoint presentation. They spoke about the lack of facilities for kids doing gym sports in the Nelson-Tasman area. There has been unprecedented growth in gymnastics sports and a number of groups have joined together to find a facility. The lack of facilities is holding the region back from participating on a national basis. New stadium facility in the region. The group are working on a hub strategy that would allow sharing of activities, resources, coaches and equipment. The group would appreciate some funding from the Council.
Dr Alexandra Greig and Jane Murray on behalf of Nelson Marlborough Health (28685)
Dr Greig said that health is a taonga and the Council’s LTP identifies many activities that support good health. The NMDHB supports the Council’s plans for active transport, frequent commuter services and bus services to Motueka and Wakefield. They would like more investment in active transport. The Hope bypass is not supported as it will bring additional traffic, air pollution and increased emissions. The NMDHB would like the Council to encourage kerbside collection of kitchen waste. Also encourages infrastructure and new housing as a package.
Noted that we need brave politicians in the climate action space. It is a challenge but if we rise to it we will have a healthier region.
Saralinda MacMillan on behalf of Bateup Road Developments Ltd (28768)
Ms MacMillan spoke about the need for stormwater and wastewater infrastructure in Richmond South.
In response to a question, Ms MacMillan said that her group would be prepared to work with a housing provider to provide social housing.
Nigel Muir on behalf of Sport Tasman (28906)
Mr Muir thanked the Council for their support of Sport Tasman. Mr Muir spoke about Sport Tasman’s goal to create community wellbeing using physical activity to build strong, resilient and inclusive communities. Mr Muir said that Sport Tasman would like to do more work with the Council.
In response to a question, Mr Muir said that there is a high number of under 12-year-olds participating in sport but that number drops significantly when the children become teenagers. Sport Tasman is trying new ways to encourage participation of that group.
In response to a question, Mr Muir said that Sport Tasman is about to launch a new programme focused on healthy active learning with the Ministry of Health and the Ministry of Education. The programme is aimed at children who live in disadvantaged areas and will include Motueka and Murchison.
Jo Leyland (28958) Lifestock Inc Ltd
Ms Leyland spoke about the issue of housing for older people who wish to spend their retirement in Tapawera. She suggested that the Council should consider a pilot project focused on rural village housing for older people. Jo would also like some support for bus services to and from Tapawera.
Ms Leyland also urged the Council to view all of its activities through a climate change lens.
Derek Shaw on behalf of the Top of the South Athletics Charitable Trust (29374)
Mr Shaw spoke about the athletics facility at Saxton Field and noted that the only missing piece is a pole vault facility. While there is a pole vault runway, there is still a need for uprights, bars and poles and landing mats which are expensive. The mats would also need protection from the weather. The cost is $65,000, the Trust would supply $26k and the they are asking both councils to pay $19.5k each.
Lindsay Alexander (27465)
Mr Alexander spoke about the costs of the Waimea Community dam and urged the Council to control them. He supports option D and he has spoken to many in the Redwood Valley who also support option D. Mr Alexander believes that the dam will only benefit the irrigators.
Ali Boswijk on behalf of Nelson Tasman Chamber of Commerce (28461)
Ms Boswijk said that the Chamber would like greater alignment between the LTP and the Te Tauihu intergenerational strategy. She suggested that the Council cannot ignore the current housing issue and urged more flexibility in housing options. Ms Boswijk the Council to increase its funding in the NRDA. She spoke about the need for alignment if the region wants to attract central government funding. The CoC supports investment in infrastructure but has some concerns about delivery.
An adjournment was taken from 5.37pm and the hearing resumed at 5.55 pm.
Meg Matthews and Toni Power on behalf of the Nelson Regional Development Agency (28931)
Ms Matthews spoke about leveraging off Project Kōkiri to help support businesses to upskill and grow. Pick Nelson Tasman, Catch a Job. She said that regional promotion and story telling is a key area for the NRDA who want to attract people, business and investment to our region. Prioritise regeneration, resilience, productivity and innovation. Deliver economic growth. Lingering risk of earthquake and natural disasters means we have to focus on resilience. Diversification is essential. Lifting the value of our goods and services and productivity are important drivers of economic growth. Our region is the second worst in NZ in terms of productivity. Need to create new opportunities in high value sectors. Rising house costs and low paid jobs are putting pressure on our communities.
She said that NRDA needs adequate funding to continue the current work streams.
Bob Chittenden (29396)
Mr Chittenden said that he believed that most Richmond residents support the dam, however the Council should do a better job to explain the benefits to all ratepayers. He noted that councils are required to provide areas for housing needs and suggested that some of the new subdivisions could not have gone ahead without the dam. Also there is an expectation that increased flows in the river while allow it to remain healthy, improve biodiversity and improve community enjoyment. Mr Chittenden spoke about salt water ingress in aquifers and suggested it will get worse; he asked if the community aware of that.
He suggested that the community benefits of the dam have been underplayed.
Tim Mackay (27380)
Mr Mackay spoke about a change to the planning map for Torrent Bay so that his property is zoned in zone B; his property does not have direct access to the beach front.
In response to a question, Mr Mackay said that staff are aware of this issue and suggested he submit to the LTP.
Bruce Gilkison on behalf of Zero Carbon Nelson Tasman (28805)
Mr Gilkison congratulated the Council on its climate action plan, engagement with the Climate Forum and the prominence of climate issues in the LTP.
Mr Gilkison suggested that Climate change is moving faster than predicted and we owe it to young people to act with some urgency – he noted that good progress is being made in the US and other countries.
He suggested three areas for further action – transport, what you are planning is good but do it faster. Tasman is one of worst emitters. Waste – very modest target in plan 10% per person reduction by 2030, should be closer to 50%. Climate forum support, continue. Keep an open mind on funding for the climate forum. Financial funding would be useful as has been done by Nelson.
It was suggested to Mr Gilkison that his target for waste reduction by 50% was very optimistic. Mr Gilkison suggested in his submission that the Council could look at opportunities with methane from waste, public pressure and education and recycling.
Tony Jemmett on behalf of Māpua Tennis Club (28156)
Mr Jemmett said that the club is struggling with community requirements for tennis as they don’t have enough facilities; growth has resulted in more people wanting to play tennis. The club is confident that two more courts are required.
Councillor Butler left the meeting at 6.50 pm
In response to a question, Mr Jemmett said that there had been informal talks about a combined sports facility option?
Roger Bay on behalf of Waimea East Irrigation Company (29233)
Mr Bay said that the company is not happy with the proposed targeted rate as recommended in Option D to meet the cost overruns of the Waimea Community Dam. This would be unsustainable for their members who believe the model is inequitable. The company would prefer a District-wide fixed rate.
Pierre Gargiulo on behalf of JS Ewers Limited (28775), Blackbyre Horticulture Limited; Phimai Holdings Limited; MG Group Holdings Limited
Mr Gargiulo noted that he represents a large market gardening business based in Appleby. He said that, like the Council, his company have to make decisions that are not popular to all.
The company needs a reliable water supply. They have 150 permanent staff, 100 fixed term staff, many of whom are refugees and employment provides the opportunity for a better life for them.
The company also engages over 250 other businesses who also have staff that live locally, pay rates and benefit the region.
Mr Gargiulo said that his company supported the Waimea Community dam. However the increased costs will impact on his operating costs and there is a real and present danger that businesses will have to move out of the region. He implored the Council to confirm Option B to manage the dam cost overruns.
In response to a question about the dam being charged on a user pay basis, Mr Gargiulo said that there are other benefits of the dam including the environmental health of the river and domestic water supply for urban growth.
James Patterson on behalf of J Patterson (29329), W Patterson (2934) and K Forward (29305)
Mr Patterson spoke about the options to meet the costs of the Waimea dam overruns. He believes that Option D would be unreasonable. He suggested that everyone should chip in to fund the shortfall. He said that the dam is inter-generational and it will benefit the whole community. He also believes that Nelson City should increase its contribution because Tasman supplies them with water. A secure water supply is lifeblood to the region, it will allow growth, more people, more jobs, more food and the river will be protected.
Councillor Turley left the meeting at 7.18 pm
Mark Lile on behalf of Landmark Lile (29035)
Mr Lile spoke about the significant changes to the development contributions policy, particularly around how transport DCs are calculated which is part of the change in removal of parking requirements. The system is changing significantly and the requirement for Household Units of Demand are increasing from around $1400 to $16,000 for every 100 square metres.
Mr Like said this is an eye watering difference which he believed that people would not accept. He said that developers accept the requirement to pay their fair share for the cost of growth but this formula does not work. He said that there are only four categories of activity – retail, industrial, commercial and other.
Dr Anne Grassham (28853)
Dr Grassham asked the Council to take into account sustainability and wise use of resources when they make any decisions on the LTP. She suggested that the Council needs to look at the changing environment and live within the limits of our resources. She said that the Council shouldn’t be subsidising businesses that otherwise would not be viable. She urged the Council to be more creative in how we use resources and to broaden their outlook for more solutions.
Richard Kempthorne (29392)
Mr Kempthorne noted that he supports Option A for the Waimea Community Dam cost overruns. The dam is a community resource from which everyone benefits by the provision of safe drinking water and a secure supply of water. Mr Kempthorne said that he did not support the holding company for Port Nelson and Nelson. He suggested that there are still some questions about how the three waters reforms will work. He would prefer the water District’s water supplies to stay with the Council.
Debs Martin on behalf of Forest and Bird (29048)
Ms Martin noted that Forest & Bird has branches in Nelson-Tasman and Golden Bay with numerous members. She acknowledged the hard work of the volunteers.
She spoke about the Councils investment in climate response – we all know that climate change is coming, acknowledge that you are recognising that. Climate change is fundamental to all of Council’s work, need to ensure you address it in all that you do. Five areas where council could do more work, identify environments/habitat that are going to be vulnerable to climate change, eg shore birds and the effect of sea level rise. Carbon sequestration, forestry is good but there are other options. Planning for effects of coastal inundation and sea level rise – lot about protecting hard assets, need to look at coastal environment, give the coast room to breathe. Biosecurity and pest issues will change under climate change.
She noted that the LTP does not address the issue of the Council’s under investment in biodiversity. She urged the Councillors to look at the outcome of the Bio-strategy Forum. She wants more investment in biosecurity and more investment in bio-strategy.
The meeting adjourned at 7.54 pm
The meeting reconvened on Friday 7 May 2021 at the St Johns Rooms, Courtney Street, Motueka at 9.30 am
Present: Mayor
T King, Deputy Mayor S Bryant, Councillors C Butler, B Dowler, C Hill, K
Maling, C Mackenzie, D Ogilvie, T Tuffnell, A Turley, T Walker and
D Wensley
In Attendance: Community
Development Manager (S Edwards), Corporate Services Manager (M Drummond),
Environment & Planning Manager (D Bush-King), Engineering Services
Manager (R Kirby), Executive Assistant to the Mayor
(R Scherer), Team Leader – Customer Services (E Gee)
Mayor King re-opened the meeting at 9.30 am and presented the karakia.
There was an apology from Councillor Greening and apologies for lateness from Councillors Bryant and Ogilvie.
Submissions Heard
R N Hellyer (29341)
Mr Hellyer supported the Council’s recommended option for affordable housing but said that it must be competently planned and not done piecemeal. He does not support sharing the costs of the Waimea Community dam and said that the user pays policy should prevail. He said that the beneficiaries of the dam are the users and they should pay.
Mr Hellyer spoke about an independent inquiry into management of the dam project. Who is responsible and what can be done.
Mr Hellyer disagrees with the holding company for the Nelson Airport and Port Nelson and doesn’t believe there will be any savings.
Mr Hellyer asserted that there is no such thing as climate change.
Mr Hellyer said that he does not believe that the Council has a high standard of service for maintaining its roads.
Daisy Cole and Tristan Vincent on behalf of Riverside Community Trust
Ms Cole and Mr Vincent are concerned that the rezoning of land in the Lower Moutere Hills will affect over half of the Riverside Community’s property. The proposed rezoning will cut through their beef and dairy farm and separate the farming operations.
They believed that housing will ruin the ecological area around the community and increase carbon emissions. The land is productive and should not be used for housing development.
Ms Cole said that the community lived cooperatively with families tied to the land and the land has cultural significance. They asked that the Council listen to and consult with the community on the proposed land rezoning.
Chris Freyberg (29248)
Mr Freyberg spoke about the cost overruns for the Waimea Community dam. He believes that the irrigators should pay for the bulk of the cost overruns. He asserted that the dam will benefit 16 main players and the Council should apply the user pays principle and fully recover the $25.2 million from irrigators.
Mr Freyberg asked the Council to consider what sustainable development is in comparison with just growth and development.
Margriet Maarsingh (27510)
Ms Maarsingh said that the options for the Waimea Community Dam cost overruns feel wrong that the general ratepayers are needed to prop it up.
Ms Maarsingh said she is concerned that her voice is not heard. She spoke about the recent consultation process regarding the chlorination of water and said that the timing of the submission hearings was not helpful to people at work.
She urged the Councillors to talk to people like her, you are representing us and it should be a priority for you to talk to people.
She spoke about the Motueka Library and suggested that the Council focusing on big projects, not the small things that matter to people.
In response to a commend about approaching a Ward Councillor, Ms Maarsingh said she feels that decisions are already made; she wants information before decisions are made.
Sue Clark on behalf of Motueka & District Museum (28720)
Ms Clark asked the Council to support its need for storage for the Motueka Museum artefacts. The current building was not purpose built for a museum and doesn’t have storage therefore artefacts are stored in around six different places. The Museum pays around $300 month for other storage.
Ms Clark suggested that the current library building would be ideal for the museum. She said that there is no cost to the Council and the Museum is willing to source funding to change the layout at the building so they can store materials in the right conditions. This would enable the Museum to future proof their storage needs.
The Museum Trust could also provide a meeting area for other groups.
In response to a question, Ms Clark said that the proposed storage facility for the Nelson Museum would not be viable as it is too far away from Motueka.
Bill Byrne – 27315
Ms Susan Edwards presented the submission from Mr Byrne and tabled a document. She note that the submission relates to Mr Byrne’s property which is on two separate parcels of land, one area in Wai-iti Dam and the other in Waimea Dam. He said that LINZ has identified the property as one piece of land and he asked that the entire land area be in the Wai-iti Dam zone.
An adjournment was taken from 10.25 am and the hearing resumed at 10.35 am
Donald Horn (27817)
Mr Horn said that the Council has returned to a regime of spend, borrow and tax. He said that there is too much emphasis on commercial interests and too many concessions.
He cannot understand why the Council is asking people to support water schemes like the Dovedale Rural Water Supply. He is also concerned about subsidies on council operated leisure facilities such as the aquatic centre, Motueka Recreation Centre and Saxton Field. He suggested that the Council should get the users to pay for what it costs to run the facilities and from the savings that will provide a capital sum to pay for community facilities that could be user pays, eg the Motueka pool. There would be no borrowing, no future costs and no burden to ratepayers. He said that the Council cannot keep borrowing beyond its means.
However, Mr Horn said that he appreciates the general standards of service from the Council and noted that the staff are always considerate and helpful.
In response to a question, Mr Horn said that Libraries are educational facilities, not leisure facilities.
Heather Olds (28771)
Ms Olds questioned why option D to manage the Waimea Dam cost overruns would be impossible for irrigators; she said that option A is unaffordable for ratepayers.
She said that the proposed rates would be impossible for people on fixed incomes. Ms Olds lives on a 2-hectare property at Ruby Bay which is unproductive and yet she is expected to pay additional water costs related to the size and value of her property. She also spoke about the new levy of $160 to enter data for her sewerage system which is user pays, therefore why not user pays for irrigators who take 80% of the water and make money.
She said that she was worried about the growth in rates with less money to spend on essential services like road maintenance.
Federated Farmers – Sue Brown – Martin O’Connor apology from Wayne Langford.
Mr O’Connor noted that Federated Farmers disagree with the uniform annual general charge set at 18%, it should be 30% of total rates income which would provide equity for all ratepayers.
Federated Farmers supports option A for homes in the community.
Federated Farmers also supports option A to manage the Waimea Community Dam overruns, this would reduce the impact on irrigators and provide water security, including for Nelson city who also benefit greatly. Option D is unaffordable for some irrigators and some landowners will have to sell their properties. There is a risk that corporate farming will take over the Waimea Plains.
Mr O’Connor said that Federated Farmers is cautious about the proposed holding company for Port Nelson and Nelson Airport and questioned whether the proposed cost savings are accurate.
He said the costs to combat climate change should be charged to urban ratepayers as there is no benefit to rural communities. For example, active transport doesn’t benefit farmers. Farmers are doing their bit for climate change, through things such as QEII covenants and riparian strips.
It was noted that rural roads are always a great concern to Federated Farmers including lack of maintenance, the style of grading used. It was note that tourists also use rural roads. Mr O’Connor said that Waka Kotahi should reintroduce roads of national significance.
In response to a question about an inquiry into the Waimea Community Dam, Ms Brown said there should a review, not an inquiry.
An adjournment was taken from 11.20 am to 12.30 pm
Martyn Barlow (28735) and Martyn Barlow (29367) Mapua Boat Club
Mr Barlow asked the Council to retain funds in the LTP for the Mapua boat ramp. He suggested that it does not make sense to reduce the funding and timeline for the ramp as it will only be more expensive. The boat club would like the ramp to be situated at the waterfront park and it doesn’t have to be or need to be the regional boat ramp.
A new ramp will relieve the demand pressure on other ramps. He noted that there will be some challenges with the waterfront park location but the boat club has solutions. Boat launching should be a user pay system and a new ramp will take pressure off the current ramp at Grossi Point.
In response to a question, Mr Barlow said that parking is an issue in the afternoon in Mapua but not for boaties who go out in the morning. Land is already designated for parking, it is owned by the Council.
Mr Barlow said that some neighbours support the boat ramp at Waterfront Park but do have some concerns about noise and the wash down facilities. Mr Barlow suggested that the new ramp would not include a wash down facility, people could wash their boats at home.
In response to a question, Mr Barlow said that the Tamaha sea scouts are represented on the sub-committee of the boat club.
John Kelly on behalf of Grey Power Motueka (29367)
Mr Kelly spoke about the LTP consultation process in particular the Consultation Document which he believes is going downhill, it includes lots of flowery stuff but no budgets etc. He said that the Consultation Document doesn’t do justice to the draft LTP which is now fragmented into 28 other documents resulting in a gap in information. He suggested that the LTP reduced the Council’s transparency. He supports the option of reserve contributions being used for major renewals.
Steve Hayden (28984)
Mr Hayden owns a property in Tasman View Road. He noted that currently residents maintain the road themselves but there is more and more traffic as the area is a popular spot for recreation activities, it is part of Tasman’s Great Taste Trail and is also used by runners and walkers, there is a popular lookout and it is part of the K2M route.
He said that Tasman View Road needs to be developed in terms of a flood issue and for access. Increased number of traffic are causing issues on the road and there is issues with access for emergency service vehicles. He urged the Council to change the designation of Tasman View Road so that it was maintained by the Council.
Colin Walker (29034)
Mr Walker spoke about the need for Council transparency, user pays to apply, charges to be reasonable and that the irrigators should pay more for the Waimea Community Dam. In terms of office accommodation, Mr Walker suggested that Council staff should work from home.
Mr Walker said that the most popular active recreation in the Tasman District is boating with 20% of residents owning boats in one form or other. He said that with such a significant amount of boating in the area, it is important to have boat ramps including a marina with walk on berths.
Steve Cross (28550)
Mr Cross spoke about the proposed holding company for the Nelson Airport and Port Nelson. He said that the main motivation for the port is around funding however there is no such thing as cheap finance, just difference levels of risk. He said that while the proposal is not illegal it is very unethical and against the spirit of the LGA.
Councillor Tuffnell left the meeting at 1.30 pm.
He said that the proposal will result in the Council finances being heavily intertwined with the port and airport which will corrupt the Council’s credit rating with LGFA.
Brian Lister (27509)
Mr Lister suggested that the Council’s proposed rating increases over the next ten years are too high and unaffordable for many people. He suggested that the Council should look at the LTP from another angle, instead of listing what you are going to do and how much, start at the other end, what is the most we should be charging ratepayers, what can we do with that money and how can we spend it with some element of an increase to cover inflation and new projects.
He said that ratepayers need certainty and suggested that a 3% rate increase is reasonable which is still above the level of increase in superannuation. Also money should be spent on emergency repairs and renewals first and only then if any money is left over should the Council start looking at new project or projects.
Mr Lister suggested that there will be further cost overruns for the Waimea Community Dam. He said that the Council does not have a good reputation for completing projects within or under budget, eg Queen Street and now the dam. He said the projects weren’t funded properly, there was no allowance for cost overruns and suppliers should have to supply at fixed cost rate.
He is against the increase to cover fire-fighting in Motueka and suggested that the Council should buy one or two water tankers and give them to the fire service.
Pat Russell (29390)
Ms Russell spoke about future housing and her wish to subdivide her section. However, the planning consent demands regarding the required frontage and preservation orders on trees are impossible. She does not understand why her proposal requires a two way cycle route, 4.5 m wide, when a car lane is 3.5 m wide. Ms Russell spoke about subdivision costs, reserves contribution, development contribution plus other fees which are not fair and reasonable. She suggested that the rules will stop people from subdividing.
Ian Davey (29410)
Mr Davey spoke about the Councils debt and suggested that there had been misinformation for many years. He said that the Council uses money as a servant with no interest for the public. He suggested that when the government says jump, local government says, how high. He said that New Zealand’s Parliament and local bodies are there to serve and represent the will of the people.
He suggested that the website should be used to inform people on both sides and the Council could use polls and referendum in conjunction with council issue to give and provide.
Mr Davey said he had serious reservations about the proposed holding company for Port Nelson and Nelson Airport Ltd and he is also against any development on good horticultural land.
Mervyn Hall on behalf of Weka Peckers Ltd (29137)
Mr Hall and his wife introduced themselves as the new owners of the recycle depot at the Motueka resource recovery centre. He spoke about waste minimisation and his company’s focus on reducing waste and the opportunities to recycle, divert or repurpose materials. Mr Hall said that 50% of vehicles go to the dump rather than unload with them because they don’t know what they can do with their waste.
He suggested that the Council should incentivise the community to use the recovery centre and asked that a weighbridge be installed so they could keep statistics on how much waste is being diverted to reuse. The depot has the capacity to significantly increase recycling and currently they are diverting about 40-50% away from landfill.
Responding to a question, Mr Hall said that the business is sustainable and profitable. He and his team are passionate about recycling. He said that a good weighbridge would cost around $80,000 and he would like to see the same used at the Richmond resource recovery centre.
Councillors Hill and Turley left the meeting at 2.20 pm.
An adjournment was taken from 2.20 pm until 2.35 pm.
Ross Loveridge on behalf of the Motueka Community Swimming Pool Committee (28117)
Fred Hinkley spoke to the submission. He said that the committee were looking at a site for the proposed swimming pool next door to the high school.
The pool would focus on health and wellbeing, low impact rehabilitation, social interaction, water safety projects, outdoor recreation and would also attract visitors.
Motueka is the largest town in the South Island that doesn’t have an indoor heated swimming pool. He said that the final facility would not cost a lot to run; there will not be wave pools or slides and the roof area will be solar to help with running costs. He said that the community supports the proposed pool.
Mr Loveridge said that the committee had been working with Council staff and updating the project costs; they have added $100k to allow for insulation of the concrete panels on the rear of the building, added $100,000 and $200,000 for contingency. The total cost is now $3.65m. They would like to see funding of two-thirds Council and one third from fundraising. They plan to carry out a feasibility study in year 1 of the LTP and to start building the pool in year 2.
Mayor King left the meeting at 2.50 pm.
Ash Price (27191)
Mr Price spoke on behalf of the Motueka Lions Club. He said that the Lions Club had donated $15,000 to the community pool. Mr Price said there is strong local support for a therapeutic pool which is critical to allow people to maintain their mobility. Also funding opportunities within Lions that we could bring to the project. He urged the Council to finalise funding for the pool in year 1 of the LTP and building it in years 2-3.
Cheyenne Roche and Eric Rowe on behalf of Motueka i'SITE team (28451)
Ms Roche and Mr Rowe asked for the Council to provide funding to help to keep the Motueka i-Site open.
In response to a question Ms Roche said that if the i-Site was closed, 30,000 people would lose the service. They spoke about the value of tourism for the local economy.
Responding to a question, Ms Roche said the i-Site brand is necessary so that visitors can trust the information they are given.
Peter Cromwell on behalf of Motueka Bowling Club Inc. (26720)
The Motueka Bowling Club has two greens, one artificial and one grass. The current artificial turf needs replacing. The club has received a quote from Tiger Turf for $219,000 plus GST. The club has funding of $15k from the gaming trust and $124,000 in reserves. The club has applied to host the national fours in tournament in 2023 and this will attract a significant number of people into the region.
Tim Robinson (29013)
Mr Robinson spoke in support of a boat ramp to be located in Mapua. He asked the Council to retain the original timeline and budget for a regional boat ramp in the LTP.
Responding to a question, Mr Robinson said he would not oppose the sale of the three sections of commercial land along the frontage of .
Ann Martin and Barney Thomas on behalf of Te Āwhina Marae o Motueka (29363)
Ms Martin and Mr Thomas spoke on progress of the proposed development of Te Āwhina Marae. They noted that the development has been staged with stage 1 completed. Stage 2 needs to occur before stage 3 and that involves shifting the current Kaumatua flats.
Mr Thomas noted that the marae buildings at Te Āwhina are not up to date and are not compliant; they need to be replaced. The estimated cost is $10m. Now the marae is asking the Council to consider waiving resource consent costs, building consent costs and development contributions as a contribution to the marae development. Te Āwhina marae is the principal marae for Tasman.
Mr Thomas referred to the papakainga planning processes which, he believes, don’t meet our interpretation. Would be good to meet with Council so you can hear our interpretation. Other councils have specific policies around papakainga. Consistency across the top of the south is required.
The iwi is also looking at cultural revitalisation, education, other opportunities, there is a lot of work planned to help with social development.
Mr Thomas said that once the kaumatua flats have been shifted, a new whare kai will be built with administration in the front. Space will also be provided for whare taonga, gyms and a cultural hub. The aim is to have the facilities to draw more conferences to Motueka.
Lew Solomon and Murray Dawson on behalf of Water Information Network Incorporated (28926)
Mr Solomon spoke about the risk of rupture of the Alpine Fault and its effect on the Waimea Community Dam. He suggested that there is a 94% probability of a rupture of the Alpine Fault happening in the next 100 years. WIN accepts that catastrophic failure is minimal and acceptable risk but note that there is a significant risk of the dam being damaged beyond repair or repairable only at a huge cost within the 100 years.
Mr Solomon suggested that the Council is using more ratepayers money to subsidise irrigators.
Mr Solomon believes that the contribution to regional GDP from the Waimea Plains is 2%.
Mr Solomon supports Option D for the Waimea Community Dam cost overruns.
Richard Osmaston (27981)
Mr Osmaston shared his thoughts on society in general and suggested that society as we know it is collapsing. People are insulated by wealth and don’t recognise serious problems in the community.
He suggested that young people want to know about sustainability, poverty, housing, climate change and that many of them don’t see a bright future.
Mr Osmaston asked the Council to think outside the square and to find solutions that are outside the box.
The hearing closed at 3.50 pm.
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