Minutes of the Meeting of the Whanganui District Council ...€¦ · 2018-08-14 · Puanga...

Council Meeting 14 August 2018

Minutes of the Meeting of the Whanganui District Council held at 2.00pm on Tuesday, 14 August 2018 in the Council Chamber, Municipal Office Buildings, 101 Guyton Street, Whanganui ___________________________________________________________________

Present: Mayor Hamish McDouall (Chair), Deputy Mayor Cr Jenny Duncan, Cr Alan Taylor, Cr Charlie Anderson, Cr Philippa Baker-Hogan, Cr David Bennett, Cr Josh Chandulal-Mackay, Cr Helen Craig, Cr Murray Cleveland, Cr Kate Joblin, Cr Hadleigh Reid, Cr Rob Vinsen and Cr Graeme Young.

Apologies: Nil

In Attendance: Mr David Matthews (Chair, Wanganui Rural Community Board).

Officers in Attendance: Mr Kym Fell (Chief Executive), Mr Mike Fermor (General Manager Finance), Ms Sarah Pomeroy (Communications and Marketing Manager). Ms Kim Fielder (Governance Support). Secretary: Ms Karyn Turner (Governance Services Officer).

Prayer Cr David Bennett read the Prayer.

Apologies No apologies.

Leave of Absence Council’s Resolution Proposed by Mayor McDouall, seconded by Cr Taylor:

THAT the Leave of Absence of Cr Hadleigh Reid for the period 15 August 2018 – 6 October 2018 (inclusive) is granted.

CARRIED

Declarations of Interest There were no new declarations of interest.

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Additional Information 1. Additional Information

Item Officer Page No

Agenda Page No

9. Representative Update Cr Chandulal-Mackay

76

Confidential 10: Whanganui District Council Holdings

Limited Report

Ms Annette Main 1 127

Council’s Resolution Proposed by Mayor McDouall, seconded by Cr Reid: THAT the additional information tabled is taken with the relevant items.

CARRIED Public Engagement Forum

There were no public registrations for this meeting.

Confirmation of Council Minutes – 2/3 May 2018 LTP 2018/28 Hearing of Submissions Council’s Resolution Proposed by Mayor McDouall, seconded by Cr Duncan:

THAT the minutes of the Whanganui District Council meeting held 2/3 May 2018 are confirmed.

CARRIED Confirmation of Council Minutes – 16 May 2018 LTP 2018/28 Deliberations Council’s Resolution Proposed by Mayor McDouall, seconded by Cr Chandulal-Mackay:

THAT the minutes of the Whanganui District Council meeting held 16 May 2018 are confirmed.

CARRIED

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Confirmation of Council Minutes – 12 June 2018 It was advised that an amendment was required for the Council Minutes – 12 June 2018 prior to their confirmation. It was noted that a bullet point had been omitted in error when compiling the minutes. Council’s Resolution Proposed by Mayor McDouall, seconded by Cr Cleveland: THAT the resolution to Item 6: Representation Review – Updated Initial Proposal

(Whanganui District Council meeting 12 June 2018), be amended to include the following bullet point omitted from the minutes: • THAT two Councillor appointments will be made to the Whanganui Rural Community

Board. CARRIED

ACTION: Karyn Turner Council’s Resolution Proposed by Mayor McDouall, seconded by Cr Duncan:

THAT, including the amendment to Item 6: Representation Review – Updated Initial Proposal, the minutes of the Whanganui District Council meeting held 12 June 2018 are confirmed.

CARRIED Confirmation of Council Minutes – 28 June 2018 LTP 2018/28 Adoption Council’s Resolution Proposed by Mayor McDouall, seconded by Cr Craig:

THAT the minutes of the Whanganui District Council meeting held 28 June 2018 are confirmed.

CARRIED Confirmation of Council Minutes – 19 July 2018 Strike the Rates 2018 Council’s Resolution Proposed by Cr Craig, seconded by Cr Bennett:

THAT the minutes of the Whanganui District Council meeting held 19 July 2018 are confirmed.

CARRIED

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Reports to Council

1. Iwi Engagement Executive summary Meetings of Tamaupoko Link were held at Ruakā Marae, Rānana, Whanganui River Road, on 23 May 2018, and at Whanganui District Council on 18 July 2018. Minutes are attached. (Refs A1, A2) Meetings of the Tupoho Working Party were held at Rangahaua Marae, Whanganui, on 30 May 2018, and at Whanganui District Council on 27 June 2018. Minutes are attached. (Refs A3, A4)

References – Agenda Attachments A1 Confirmed minutes of the Tamaupoko Link hui held on 23 May 2018 A2 Unconfirmed minutes of the Tamaupoko Link hui held on 18 July 2018 A3 Confirmed minutes of the Tupoho Working Party hui held on 30 May 2018 A4 Unconfirmed minutes of the Tupoho Working Party hui held on 27 June 2018

Discussion The appointment of Dr Rāwiri Tinirau as Chair, Te Rūnanga O Tamaupoko, was acknowledged.

Council’s Resolution Proposed by Cr Joblin, seconded by Cr Duncan: 1.1 THAT the confirmed minutes of the Tamaupoko Link hui held on 23 May 2018, are

received.

1.2 THAT the unconfirmed minutes of the Tamaupoko Link hui held on 18 July 2018, are received.

1.3 THAT the confirmed minutes of the Tupoho Working Party hui held on 30 May 2018, are received.

1.4 THAT the unconfirmed minutes of the Tupoho Working Party hui held on 27 June 2018, are received.

CARRIED

Significance of decision – In terms of the Significance and Engagement Policy 2018, the decision is not significant.

https://hubble.whanganui.govt.nz/site/strat/psd/policy/Significance%20and%20Engagement%20Policy/FINAL%20Significance%20and%20Engagement%20Policy.pdf?Web=1

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2. Mayor’s Report Hamish McDouall, Mayor, reports:

Executive Summary A monthly report on the Mayor’s activity to increase transparency. This reports highlights the Mayor’s activity for June and July 2018.

Meetings and Engagements

• 1 June Meeting with the Whanganui Land Settlement Trust Youth Committee Review working party

• 2 June Wanganui Cosmopolitan Club 125th Jubilee

• 3 June St Johns Club 125th Jubilee Dinner

• 5 June Council Workshop – Earthquake-Prone Buildings Sarjeant Gallery Trust meeting

• 6 June Regional Transport Committee Regional Chiefs Meeting

• 7 June Local Government New Zealand (LGNZ) Biodiversity Forum Rural and Provincial Sector

• 8 June Rural and Provincial Sector

• 9 June St John Volunteers – Thank You Mid-Winter Christmas

• 11 June Meeting with Holdings Directors Youth Committee meeting

• 12 June Regional Roading teleconference Council meeting Wanganui Ratepayers Association Annual General Meeting

• 13 June ASB St John in Schools – Gonville School

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• 14 June Safer Whanganui Meeting with Nigel Allan, District Commander, New Zealand Police

• 15 June Puanga Festivities – Bright Beginnings Childcare Centre

• 16 June Toowoomba visit – Welcome Toowoomba dinner function

• 17 June Lunch with Hell Pizza franchisees

• 18 June Meeting with Regional Mayors re EQPB and Minister Salesa Meeting with business re possible expansion to Whanganui Meeting with Jamie Waugh

• 21 June Councillors meeting Prelude – UCOL Visual Arts Year 3 Mental Health Inquiry Team submission UCOL Scholarships Award Ceremony Whanganui Familiarisation dinner – New Zealand International Commercial Pilot Academy

• 22 June Collegiate Honours Tie Ceremony – Chester Borrows

• 23 June RNZRSA Indoor Bowling Tournament opening

• 24 June St John Church service

• 25 June Statutory Management Committee – Hearings – Road Naming and Numbering Policy Judging Volunteer Week videos Meeting with Ken Mair Wanganui Collegiate Quad Supporters function

• 26 June Strategy & Finance Committee Meet the Councillors Youth Committee function

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• 27 June Healthy Families meeting – Te Oranganui Joint Council/UCOL meeting Collegiate versus Christ’s Quadrangular final Phil Twyford and New Zealand Airports’ Association Reception

• 28 June Audit and Risk Committee workshop Ports Leaders meeting Council meeting – Adopt 10 Year Plan

• 29 June Blessing of Restored Lion Monument Meeting with Youth Committee member Meeting with Marianne Archibald Nagaizumi delegation information evening and dinner

• 1 July Opening of Ladies Indoor Bowling

• 2 July TrustPower Community Awards judging FLOW hui Welcoming Communities launch Humanalia Art Show opening

• 3 July Cultural Intelligence breakfast Westmere School – book celebration

• 4 July NZ International Commercial Pilot Academy/UCOL – MoU signing Positive Ageing Forum

• 5 July Meeting with Bridget Sullivan – Ministry of Business, Innovation and Education(MBIE) Sarjeant Gallery Trust meeting

• 6 July Provincial Growth Fund – introductions with Lafaele Lupo, MBIE Upokongaro School – Duffy books presentation Masters Games launch

• 8 July 18th Anniversary of Taranaki-Whanganui Soldiers Day, New Plymouth

• 9 July Rotary meeting Justice Reference group

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• 10 July Meeting with Henry Newrick NZ Honours meeting

• 12 July Chief Executive Review meeting Youth Committee Review working party Meeting with Vitapower Business dinner – Vitapower, Japanese visitors

• 15-17 July LGNZ Conference and Excellence Awards LGNZ AGM

• 18 July Tamaupoko Link meeting

• 19 July Meeting with Rawiri Tinirau – Whanganui River Road toilet Meeting with business re opportunities in Whanganui Council meeting – Strike 2018/19 Rates NZ International Commercial Pilot Academy – tour of operation Celebration of Craigs Investment Partners – 25 Years

• 20 July Mountains to Sea Cycle Trail Partnership, Ohakune

• 22 July Magpies Poetry Reading

• 23 July Meeting with Sport Whanganui – general update on sporting codes Youth Committee meeting

• 24 July Regional Roading teleconference Statutory Management Committee – Queens Park Reserve Management Plan Holdings Board briefing

• 25 July Town Centre Regeneration Steering Group meeting Meeting with resident re Representation review Meeting with resident re Property issue Interview with PhD student

• 26 July Meeting with Jackie Tataurangi re Dawn Taiaha Wananga Whanganui Port Leaders Group meeting Plastic Free Bag prize draw Further meeting with Bridget Sullivan and business interested in relocating

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Meeting with potential new resident re business opportunity Meeting with Community Legal Advice Whanganui (CLAW) re Shop Trucks Youth Committee Review working party Victoria University visitors – 32 Foreign Government officials (Cambodia, Vietnam etc) Literary Whanganui Book launch

• 27 July Youth Connect Minister Ron Mark – working lunch with Regional Mayors & Chairs Meeting with Conal McCarthy – built heritage

• 30 July Meeting with Ministry of Social Development – Corrections Meeting with Riding for the Disabled – Fundraising Meeting with resident – Mayoral Relief Fund Council workshop – Effective Council/Iwi engagement and Whanganui land negotiation

• 31 July Mayoral reception – Whanganui High School Thai students Property & Community Services Committee

Council’s Resolution Proposed by Cr Joblin, seconded by Cr Reid:

2.1 THAT the information is noted.

CARRIED

3. Whanganui & Partners Statement of Intent – Key Project No 1 Update

Philippa Ivory, General Manager – Whanganui & Partners, reports: Executive summary As requested by Council at its meeting held on 8 May 2018, approval is sought for the amended wording to Whanganui & Partners’ Statement of Intent 2018/19 regarding Key Project No 1: Ports. Key information At its meeting held on 8 May 2018, the Council was presented with Whanganui & Partners’ Statement of Intent (SOI) 2018/19 for adoption. Although acknowledging that facilitation of business retention and growth was a key strategic priority, concerns were expressed


http://www.wanganui.govt.nz/our-council/publications/policies/Documents/SignificanceandEngagementPolicy.pdf

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regarding the wording for the SOI’s Key Project No 1: Ports, and clarity was requested on where respective responsibilities for the project sat. The Council subsequently resolved: • That the draft Statement of Intent 2018/19 for Whanganui & Partners is adopted

excluding the Key Project No 1: Ports, which will be brought back to Council for approval.

Following discussion with the Whanganui & Partners’ Board, Cr Jenny Duncan, and Kym Fell (Chief Executive), the wording for the Statement of Intent’s Key Project No 1: Ports has been subsequently amended as follows:

Key Projects

Description

1. Business Whanganui & Partners will focus on business retention and succession planning, growth and attraction to seek the best possible outcomes from all projects, including the Port.

It is requested that the revised wording be approved and that the Whanganui & Partners’ Statement of Intent 2018/19 – Key Project No 1: Business, is adopted.

Discussion Myles Fothergill, Chair of Whanganui & Partners Board was in attendance.

Council’s Resolution Proposed by Cr Duncan, seconded by Cr Bennett:

3.1 THAT the Whanganui & Partners’ Statement of Intent 2018/19 – Key Project No 1:

Business, is adopted. CARRIED

ACTION: Philippa Ivory 4. Whanganui & Partners Activity Report

Philippa Ivory, General Manager, reports: Executive Summary The purpose of this report is to provide Whanganui District Council with an update of recent and upcoming activities within the Whanganui & Partners (W&P) portfolio. Progress Update W&P focus is on its Statement of Intent (SOI) 2018/19, with staff establishing benchmarks to ensure effective measurement of success in the 2018/19 year.



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Highlights from July – August include: • Business Month – a focus on business and face to face interaction to promote the

role of W&P in economic development.

• Website and collateral – a new website (shop-window) goes live in August 2018, and supported by Business Month and a media campaign, will set new standards for the promotion of Whanganui as a place to live, work, study and visit.

• Television and external media coverage of Whanganui has been positive. The

community support behind the Communication Station and Seven Sharp, amongst other coverage, reflects well on our aim to have 40,000+ ambassadors for our district.

• Interest in Whanganui as a location to open, or move existing business to, continues

to grow, and we continue to offer support to those who wish to do so.

• There has been an increase in the number of event ideas and opportunities being brought to W&P. We continue to work with people to assist them with the assessment and establishment process.

Business 1. August 2018 is Business Month. The team has been building a strong programme of

events for the month, including partnering with stakeholders on shared events. The aim of this campaign is to: • Share the message that W&P is focused on supporting local business. • Raise the W&P profile as being able to assist with business growth and

retention. • Attract new business to Whanganui to grow the base of employees and

opportunities.

2. The Business Friendly Group continues to be the focal point for business enquiries. These enquiries have included: • Two companies interested in locating a manufacturing/distribution plant in

Whanganui. • One looking to locate a recreation centre in the Central Business District (CBD). • One considering a specialist supermarket. • One working on options for a hotel.

We have also successfully supported a local manufacturer with expansion plans, thus ensuring they remain in Whanganui.

3. A new business database is being established via the Boots on the Ground survey. We will ensure all business enquiries are followed up and surveyed for their thoughts on the support offered.

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All activities in this area are designed to support the measures in the current Statement of Intent.

Destination/Marketing 4. From Seven Sharp to National Geographic and the NZ Herald, Whanganui has been

getting positive publicity as a destination of choice to visit and to live. The Seven Sharp story, and the lengthy ad lib commentary from the two presenters that followed, was very positive and the video has been viewed more than 48,000 times.

5. The Conversation Station video, has been seen more than 174,000 times. This is another excellent collaborative initiative that reflects our district in a positive manner.

6. Tourism Industry Aotearoa (TIA) held its regional event in Whanganui. This half-day event brought the Chief Executive of TIA and various industry specialists to the region, and was viewed as a very successful day.

Education 7. We have had a number of positive education famils recently, with international

agents reviewing what we have to offer, and consequently promoting the benefits of studying in Whanganui to parents and prospective students. The New Zealand International Commercial Pilot Academy is included in many of these visits.

8. Pathways to employment, including the 100% SWEET programme, Trade Training Hub project, and partnering with industry and training providers, is a key focus for W&P. Employers have indicated ongoing challenges with finding work-ready candidates and/or vocationally trained candidates. Some local companies are very pro-active and, along with Whanganui District Employment Training Trust (WDETT) and Universal College of Learning (UCOL), are expanding our capacity to offer appropriate candidates to employers. Further needs and gaps analysis will be a key component of the Boots on the Ground survey during Business Month.

Innovation 9. Our innovation project plan is focused on expanding our digital capability within

Whanganui. Projects include: • Establishing free Wi-Fi in the wider CBD. • Using this free Wi-Fi as a tool to drive the ‘Facebook/Google maps walks’

(heritage, coffee, arts etc). • Continuing work on the business tool now known as, ‘The Bridge’, and linking

it with the Opus Smart Cities project (National Science challenge).

10. We continue to work on assessing and selecting the best business start-up training solutions for Whanganui.

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Communications/Branding 11. W&P has developed a new Business Pack, with the aim to have one document that

may be supplied to anyone considering to move their business to Whanganui. It focuses on doing business here, with a small lifestyle component at the back.

12. The Business Pack will be supported by a Lifestyle Pack, which is currently under development. This pack will focus on all the lifestyle benefits of Whanganui, especially those unique to Whanganui, such as Museum, Sarjeant Art Gallery, Royal Opera House, Port, Airport, Ultra-fast broadband and heritage buildings. It will include information about our great weather, affordable housing, and excellent range of schools, as well as highlight our clubs and parks and key events, and, potentially, our plans for the future.

13. People wishing to follow up from August Business Month will visit our new shop

window www.discoverwhanganui.co.nz, where they will see quality photos, read engaging stories of local activities and success, watch videos by locals for locals and visitors alike, and more.

An explanation of www.discoverwhanganui.co.nz Combining the Whanganui & Partners and Visit Whanganui websites, www.discoverwhanganui.co.nz is the one-stop shop window for Whanganui economic development. Featuring a news slider for telling our stories, information about property, jobs, lifestyle, education, business, etc, it is a key building block to selling the Whanganui brand (to grow, retain and attract).

Due to contested ownership of other site names (Whanganui.co.nz etc) we chose Discover Whanganui / Discover Wanganui as the name for this new site. It nicely reflects the action-based language featured on the site, and in all new W&P collateral.

www.discoverwhanganui.co.nz will be presented to W&P staff on 13 August 2018, then W&P Board immediately following. It will be launched at the public forum on 21 August 2018, and to Council staff at Tatou Hui on 23/24 August 2018. It will become live to the public at that time.

Stage Two of the website, to be completed before the next public forum, will include the updating of the Education and Visit sub-sections, and a slow release video campaign covering work, study, live and conference in Whanganui.

This will be supported by: 1. Business month. 2. The Business pack. 3. The Lifestyle pack (in design). 4. A major media campaign designed to raise our profile and invite people to

‘think Whanganui’ is planned for spring/summer. More on this after Business Month.

http://www.discoverwhanganui.co.nz/

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Discussion Ms Ivory noted a highlight for the Council and the community was the success Whanganui

& Partners (W&P) was having with its ‘Biz Buzz’ Business Month. A key measure in W&P Statement of Intent was to interact with the community, raise the profile of business, secure more jobs for people and have a more positive relationship with W&P. While a measure for some time, Ms Ivory said it had not necessarily been approached effectively. A research company had been engaged to speak with a minimum of 500 businesses in Whanganui to determine the challenges faced, succession planning and hiring challenges and generally what W&P could do as an economic development agency to assist. From this W&P would work with the Chamber of Commerce and other stakeholders to provide solutions. W&P had partnered with UCOL through Biz Buzz Month to deliver training courses. A new website www.discoverwhanganui.co.nz enabling more effective communication with the community would be launched at W&P’s Public Forum on 21 August 2018.

Ms Ivory said a goal of W&P was to keep young people in Whanganui and news just

received was the RSA premises were to become a Youth Recreation Centre. Mayor McDouall said the Youth Committee was pursuing a Youth Hub for Whanganui and queried whether there could be opportunity for the Youth Committee to partner with the new Youth Recreation Centre. Ms Ivory would keep Cr Josh Chandulal-Mackay updated on this matter.

Myles Fothergill, Chair of W&P Board, and Ms Ivory responded to questions. While some

neighbouring districts were offering incentives for business relocations, Ms Ivory was keen to undertake more research as to the effectiveness of this. Mr Fothergill said the biggest incentive was having the way paved, making it easier to relocate to Whanganui. A business may stop and think if offered incentives on rates, leases and land but the whole picture was bigger than that and the Business Friendly Group was a key component of this. Mayor McDouall said a joint project between the Council and W&P could be considered to see what could be done without disadvantaging or being unfair to Whanganui’s existing businesses.

Council’s Resolution Proposed by Mayor McDouall, seconded by Cr Reid: 4.1 THAT the information is noted.

CARRIED


http://www.discoverwhanganui.co.nz/


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5. Government Consultation Update Justin Walters, Policy Analyst, reports: Executive summary The purpose of this report is to provide an update on Central Government and other consultations being undertaken which have the potential to impact on Council or the Whanganui District, and for Council to consider the Whanganui District Council submission on the Draft National Planning Standards. Background The purpose of the government consultation update (Ref B1) is to keep the Council informed on opportunities to provide feedback on legislation, discussion documents and other consultations, undertaken by Central Government and public organisations that have potential to affect the operation of Council or the wider Whanganui District within the responsibilities of Council.

The following new government consultations are available for comment since the last update to Council at its meeting held 12 June 2018: • Draft National Planning Standards – Closes 17 August 2018. • Local Government Regulatory Systems Amendment Bill – Closes 17 August 2018. • Health (Drinking Water) Amendment Bill – TBC.

Key issues Draft National Planning Standards The National Planning Standards provide a ‘national planning template’ for district and regional plans prepared under the Resource Management Act 1991. Officers have reviewed the National Planning Standards (NPS) and recommended that Council support the creation of the standard, with minor changes, including: • An increase to the range of standard definitions, and the inclusion of definitions

from National Policy Statements and National Environmental Standards, for completeness.

• Amendments to symbols and colour palette to improve the clarity of the maps. • A change of name to allow for a better distinction between the standards and the

National Policy Statement, which is also abbreviated to NPS. • The addition of overlays and new standard zones for forestry, coastal and historic

heritage. • More specificity on ‘Subdivision and Roading’, as territorial authorities generally

have a similar approach to these activities. • The inclusion of a standardised approach to the development of Section 32

Evaluations.

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A draft submission for consideration by the Council (Ref B2) has been prepared addressing these points. Local Government Regulatory Systems Amendment Bill The Bill makes minor technical changes to the following acts: • Dog Control Act 1996. • Local Electoral Act 2001. • Local Government Act 1974. • Local Government Act 2002. • Local Government Official Information and Meetings Act 1987 (LGOIMA). • Local Government (Rating) Act 2002. • Rates Rebate Act 1973. The majority of changes relate to how councils provide written notice, with the inclusion of a requirement to publish notices on its website. Officers with responsibility for the above areas have not raised any issues that warrant Council making a submission in support of, or opposing, the proposed changes. It is noted that the changes to the LGOIMA may require changes to Council’s standing orders, however this will be reviewed once the Bill comes into force. Changes to the Rates Rebate Act will allow a person who has a residential unit in a retirement village, but is not a direct ‘ratepayer’, to receive a rates rebate. This policy position is in keeping with previous Council submissions. Health (Drinking Water) Amendment Bill The most significant of the proposed changes to the drinking water standards is the process for consulting on any changes. The Bill proposes to remove the requirement for the Ministry of Health to consult for a minimum of three years, and that changes be gazetted at least two years prior to the changes coming into force. Other changes include modifications to water safety plans and a streamlined process for the appointment of drinking-water assessors. The senior Water Engineer and Environmental Health officer have reviewed the proposed changes and did not raise any issues that warrant Council making a submission in support of, or opposing, the proposed changes. It is noted that with removal of the mandatory two-year implementation period and changes to the drinking water standards (along with the associated costs) may come into effect outside of the Long Term Plan cycle. Officers will seek to minimise this risk through proactive engagement with any changes to drinking water standards and through lobbying for realistic timeframes for the implementation.

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Inquiry into Local Government Funding and Financing The terms of reference for the Productivity Commission’s Inquiry into Local Government Funding and Financing (Ref B3) have been released, with a final date for the presentation of the report to the Minister of Finance on 30 November 2019. Of note is that funding mechanisms relating to Crown land have been excluded from the scope of the inquiry. Officers will keep the Council informed about opportunities to input into the review. Next Steps If the Council resolves to make a submission on any of the open consultations, where sufficient time allows, the draft submission will tabled for approval at a Council meeting. In the event that the timing of the consultation period does not allow for this process, the draft submission will be circulated to Councillors for comment, with the Mayor and Chief Executive approving the final submission. The final submission will then be included at the following Council meeting for noting.

References – Agenda Attachments B1 Government Consultation Update – August 2018 B2 Draft Council submission on the Draft National Planning Standards B3 Terms of reference for the Inquiry into Local Government Funding and Financing

Discussion Hester den Ouden (Senior Policy Planner) responded to questions on the Council’s

submission to the National Planning Standards. The submission did not address the intention to standardise Section 32 evaluation requirements. The Resource Management Act 1991 was very prescriptive in this regard and the Council’s template followed those steps. Ms den Ouden advised she had ‘mocked up’ a compliant with standards document and sent to the Ministry of Environment. The feedback had been positive and while some ‘tweaks’ were required, the Ministry had sought permission to share this document with the rest of the country.

Responding to a question on the Health (Drinking Water) Amendment Bill, Mr Walters said the matter of water fluoridation was in the process of being moved to district health boards. The most significant of the proposed changes to the Health (Drinking Water) Amendment Bill was the process for consulting on changes. The impact of the change would be to reduce the time to implement changes but this could be mitigated through early involvement in the process.

Council’s Resolution Proposed by Mayor McDouall, seconded by Cr Duncan:

5.1 THAT the information within Government Consultation Update – August 2018 is noted.



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5.2 THAT the Council adopts the submission on the Draft National Planning Standards. CARRIED

ACTION: Hester den Ouden

6. Whanganui District Councils’ Forestry Joint Committee Report

Rowan McGregor, Manager Property Projects, reports:

Executive summary

A meeting of the Whanganui District Councils’ Forestry Joint Committee (WDCFJC) was held on 30 July 2018. The unconfirmed minutes (excluding confidential items) from that meeting are attached (Ref C).

Progress Update

Item 1 dealt with the minutes and actions arising from the previous meeting of the Committee. Item 2 reported on the draft annual financial results for the year ended 30 June 2018. Council is still to receive the external land valuation, which will have an impact on the financial statements.

Key points from the draft Annual Report:

• WDCFJC made cash losses from its normal operating activities of $175,000. This was not unexpected given the decision to defer logging pending the sale of the Forestry Portfolio.

• Excluding the effects of revaluations, the forestry operations for the year incurred a $66,000 loss. It should be noted that some of the costs incurred while maintaining the forests pending the sale being approved by the Overseas Investment Office, such as silviculture costs, will be refunded by the purchaser of the Forestry portfolio.

• The Statement of Comprehensive Income shows a surplus for the year of $2.692M. This surplus has been incurred after a revaluation increment of forestry assets $2.634M. The revaluation of forestry assets has taken into account not only the change in fair value of the asset, but also the physical change of the asset.

Item 3, Forest Manager Ian Moore’s Annual Operating Report for Year Ended 30 June 2018, was noted. Item 4 related to the proposed sale of four of the Joint Council’s forests. The report outlined the sale process to-date. During discussion, the Joint Committee noted that whether the sale was to a New Zealand buyer or an overseas buyer, local companies would still be contracted for the harvesting.

References – Agenda Attachments

C Minutes of the Whanganui District Councils’ Forestry Joint Committee Meeting 30 July 2018 (excluding confidential items).

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Discussion Cr Rob Vinsen, Chair of the Forestry Joint Committee, provided an overview of the

Committee’s meeting. He said the Committee’s discussion focussed mainly on the Emissions Trading Scheme and the potential sale of forests.

It was queried whether it could be expected that not all cash losses would be recouped

while the sale of the forests was in a holding position. In reply, Mike Fermor (General Manager Finance) said it was important to understand that deferring logging within the Nukumaru stand had helped push the sale through and also increase the price of the sale. Through the price of the sale all cash losses would be recouped.

Council’s Resolution Proposed by Cr Vinsen, seconded by Cr Young:

6.1 THAT the following resolutions of the Whanganui District Councils’ Forestry Joint Committee’s meeting held on 30 July 2018 are endorsed: Item 1: Minutes of Previous Meeting – 18 September 2017 • THAT the minutes of the Whanganui District Councils’ Forestry Joint Committee

meeting held on 18 September 2017 are confirmed. Item 2: Annual Financial Report for year ended 30 June 2018 • THAT the draft Annual Report for year ended 30 June 2018 is received. Item 3: Annual Operating Report for year ended 30 June 2018 • THAT the information be noted. Item 4: Proposed Sale of Four Joint Councils’ Forests • THAT the information be noted.

CARRIED

ACTION: Rowan McGregor

7. Council Controlled Organisations’ Exemption

Mike Fermor, General Manager Finance reports: “Executive summary The purpose of this report is to seek Council Controlled Organisation (CCO) exempt status for the Manawatu-Wanganui Regional Disaster Relief Fund Trust (the Trust). Background



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Section 7 of the Local Government Act 2002 (the Act) allows the Council to exempt a small organisation from being in the definition of a Council Controlled Organisation (CCO). CCOs have to meet certain requirements imposed by the Act, such as producing an Annual Report, furnishing a Statement of Intent to their shareholder each year and reporting against this in the Annual Report. When the Trust was established in 2004 it was exempted from its status as a CCO. The reason given for this exemption was that the Trust is a small organisation, the nature and scope of its activities is limited and does, in the main, take place only after significant adverse events, and that there would be significant additional costs if the Trust was required to meet all the obligations of a CCO. This exemption was extended again in 2007, 2012 and 2015. Each extension was for three years. The continuation of CCO exemption for the Trust is sought for a further three years, effective from 1 July 2018.

Council’s Resolution Proposed by Mayor McDouall, seconded by Cr Cleveland: 7.1 THAT the Whanganui District Council grants an exemption of Council Controlled

Organisation status for the Manawatu-Wanganui Regional Disaster Relief Fund Trust from 1 July 2018 for the next three years.

CARRIED ACTION: Mike Fermor

8. Actions Arising from Previous Minutes

No

Item Resolution Action %

Completed

1 Council meeting 31 October 2017 7. Residue of Henry Sarjeant Bequest

THAT the share of the building at 179 St Hill Street belonging to the Sarjeant Trust is sold to the Harbour Endowment.

Leighton Toy Agreed 10% of the current market value has been transferred to the Sarjeant Trust.

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2 Council meeting 13 February 2018 Minutes of Committees for Adoption Property and Community Services

THAT a suitably qualified vet gives an assurance no animal’s welfare will be adversely affected by the close proximity of the proposed new pound to shooting ranges.

Leighton Toy Engagement with the qualified veterinarian will continue throughout the duration of the project.

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Committee Meeting – 7 February 2018 Item 5: Dog Pound Relocation Council Resolutions

3 Council meeting 13 March 2018 14. Port and Rail Update

THAT Council and its key partners strategically consider, as soon as possible, how it can further influence the Government’s $3B Provincial Growth Fund for the benefit of Whanganui and the wider region.

Bryan Nicholson The Executive Leadership Team has made this a strategic priority to investigate further and to explore the opportunities that the fund presents. Planning is under way to hold workshops both internally and externally. Two workshops have been held and meetings with MBIE officials have occurred. The next step is to align the workshops and to make decisions on next steps.

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4 Council meeting 8 May 2018 3. Fitzherbert Avenue/Totara Street Safety Improvements

THAT a controlled Tee, at the intersection of Fitzherbert Avenue and Totara Street, is implemented with priority given to Fitzherbert Avenue, and will include a solid island and ‘Give Way’ facility for left-hand turning traffic from Fitzherbert Avenue into Totara Street. THAT options for the crossing of pedestrians on Fitzherbert Avenue are investigated and reported back to the Infrastructure Committee.

Rui Leitao Design completed and construction being carried out in July 2018 Rui Leitao Referred to Infrastructure Committee.

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5 4. Statement of Intent from Whanganui & Partners

THAT the draft Statement of Intent 2018/19 for Whanganui & Partners is adopted, excluding the key project number one which will be brought back to Council for approval.

Philippa Ivory Refer to Item 3 this agenda

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6 7. Plan Change 53 – Springvale Structure Plan

THAT approval is granted to undertake a Plan Change to incorporate the Springvale Structure Plan into the District Plan.

Victoria Edmonds The Plan change is underway, and the first draft of the s32 report is also complete to the level it can be.

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Council has begun the process of commissioning a cultural impact report and it is expected that an author will be appointed shortly. The designing of the master plan for the plan change has now been moved in house, and a new iteration taking into account the feedback received from the June public forums is currently being incorporated.

7 Minutes of Committees for Adoption/Receipt Council Resolution Strategy and Finance Committee – 1 May 2018 Item 8: Proposed Road Naming and Numbering Policy Statutory Management Committee 25 June 2018 Road Naming and Numbering Policy 2018 deliberations

THAT under the Statutory Management Committee’s Terms of Reference, the Committee determine that Whanganui District Council adopts a final Road Naming and Numbering Policy. THAT all decisions made during deliberations will be incorporated into a final Road Naming and Numbering Policy.

George Forster All decisions made during the Statutory Management Committee meeting on 25 June 2018 have been incorporated into the final Road Naming and Numbering Policy 2018. A communications plan has been prepared to gather names from the public that may be used by a developer when naming new roads that are a result of development.

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8 Council meeting 16 May 2018 Forestry Harvesting

THAT Council works with the forestry industry to lobby Central Government for additional funding streams to offset the impact of forestry harvesting on District roads.

THAT Council works with the forestry industry to manage their impacts on the District’s roading network to minimise costs to be borne by ratepayers.

Stephanie Macdonald-Rose This has been referred to the policy team to progress in conjunction with relevant stakeholders. Referred to Strategy and Finance Committee. Mark Hughes Initial discussions with forest managers were of mixed outcomes. FOMS were quite open to

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discussion and options, while Turkingtons were not. Referred to Infrastructure Committee.

9 Port Revitalisation THAT Council proceed with the Port Revitalisation Programme – should the business case be approved.

Leighton Toy Council are in the process of preparing a business case to be presented to Central Government. Referred to Property and Community Services Committee.

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10 Wakefield Street Bridge

THAT Council continues with the project as outlined in the Long-term Plan, contingent on NZTA funding.

Mark Hughes Awaiting NZTA decision (September). Referred to Infrastructure Committee.

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11 Dublin Street Bridge THAT Council await the results of the new NZTA application for funding.

Mark Hughes Awaiting NZTA decision on Council’s application for a detailed investigation of the Dublin St Bridge. Referred to Infrastructure Committee.

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12 Wikitoria Culvert THAT Council continues with the project as outlined in the Long-term Plan, contingent on NZTA funding.

Mark Hughes Awaiting NZTA decision (September). Referred to Infrastructure Committee.

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13 Climate Change THAT Council refers the Climate Change issue to the appropriate Committee for further discussion

Charlotte Almond Referred to Strategy and Finance Committee.

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14 Employment of a Youth Hub Facilitator

THAT Council await the outcome of the Youth Committee Review Working Party.

Stephanie Macdonald-Rose The Youth Committee Review Working Party has now been formed and is considering this alongside other key issues. Referred to Strategy and Finance Committee.

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15 Central Business District (CBD) Traffic Flow – Mainstreet

THAT Council refers the Central Business District traffic flow –

Leighton Toy Referred to Infrastructure Committee.

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Mainstreet to the appropriate Committee for further discussion.

16 Community Education

THAT the request for funding from Community Education is referred to Community Contracts process.

Charlotte Almond

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17 Whanganui Earthquake-Prone Building Community Taskforce

THAT the request for funding from Whanganui Earthquake-Prone Building Community Taskforce is referred to the General Manager – Property.

Leighton Toy This matter has been referred to the General Manager Property and will be addressed at an EQPB Community Taskforce meetings.

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18 Chamber of Commerce – Business Training Programme

THAT the request for funding from the Chamber of Commerce is referred to Whanganui & Partners and that the outcome is reported back to Council.

Philippa Ivory Referred to W&P. To be discussed at the 21 August 2018 Board meeting.

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19 Proxiam – Funding for Establishing an IT and Creative Hub

THAT the requests from Proxiam are referred to the Whanganui and Partners Board for their consideration from existing budgets and the outcome reported back to Council.

Philippa Ivory Referred to W&P. To be discussed at 21 August 2018 Board meeting.

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Council meeting 12 June 2018 3. District Plan Review Working Party Disestablishment

THAT the District Plan Review Working Party is disestablished. THAT members of the District Plan Review Working Party are acknowledged. THAT the Ko Tā Whanganui Titiro/Whanganui Hapū/Iwi World view: Outstanding Natural Landscapes Cultural Assessment Report is received and a copy circulated to Elected Members.

Charlotte Almond Governance

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21 4. Castlecliff Coastal Reserve Management Plan

THAT Council approves the Draft Castlecliff Coastal Reserve Management Plan be released for public consultation, subject to minor amendments. THAT Council hears submissions arising from public consultation.

Victoria Edmonds The submission period closes on the 17 August 2018. The Hearing is scheduled for the 11 October 2018.

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22 5. District Plan Change 55 – Miscellaneous 1

THAT approval be granted to undertake a Plan Change involving a number of miscellaneous changes to the District Plan.

Hester den Ouden 10

23 6. Representation Review – Updated Initial Proposal

THAT the following representation arrangements are adopted as Whanganui District Council’s initial proposal in accordance with sections 19H and 19J of the Local Electoral Act 2001: • That the Whanganui District is

represented by a Mayor and 12 Councillors.

• That the Mayor and Councillors are elected by the electors of the Whanganui District as a whole (at large).

• That the name of the Wanganui Rural Community Board be changed to the Whanganui Rural Community Board.

• That the Whanganui Rural Community Board consists of three subdivisions – namely the Kai Iwi subdivision, Whanganui subdivision and Kaitoke subdivision.

• That members of the Whanganui Rural Community Board are elected by the electors of the subdivisions of the community as follows: o Kai Iwi subdivision: Three

members o Whanganui subdivision: Two

members o Kaitoke subdivision: Two

members • That minor adjustments are

made to the Whanganui and Kaitoke subdivision boundaries in order to better meet the Local Government Commission representation guidelines and that these boundary changes are to transfer meshblocks 1684900 and 1685000 from the Kaitoke subdivision to the Whanganui subdivision.

Stephanie Macdonald-Rose The initial proposal was publically notified on 20 June 2018.

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THAT formal consultation on Whanganui District Council’s initial representation proposal is conducted between 20 June 2018 and 27 July 2018. THAT the representation poll to be conducted alongside the 2019 election include questions relating to the number of elected members and the basis of election for the Whanganui District.

Public consultation was extended – this will run from 20 June 2018 until 3 August 2018. Referred to Strategy and Finance Committee.

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24 7. Nagaizumi-cho Anniversary – Travel delegation

THAT the Council approves the travel of the Chief Executive Kym Fell to join Mayor Hamish McDouall’s visit to Nagaizumi-cho in August 2018 to celebrate the 30-year anniversary of Whanganui’s Sister City relationship.

Bryan Nicholson 100

25 8. Community Contracts Guidelines

THAT the interim review of the Community Contract guidelines, to provide clarity on the funding pool for Projects of Significance in preparation for the 2018/19 funding year, is endorsed. THAT a comprehensive review of Community Contracts is completed for the 2019/20 year, with the outcome and recommendations reported to a meeting of the Strategy and Finance Committee by October 2018.

Lauren Tamehana The review will start after the current process has been completed.

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26 9. Government Consultation Update

THAT the Whanganui District Council adopts the submission on the Local Electoral Matters Bill. THAT the Whanganui District Council’s submission on the Local Government (Community Well-being) Amendment Bill is noted. THAT Whanganui District Council’s feedback on the Draft Transport Agency Investment Proposal is noted.

Justin Walters 100

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Council meeting 28 June 2018 1. Adoption of Long-term Plan 2018-2028

THAT submitters to the Long Term Plan 2018-2028 be thanked and notified of the Council’s decisions. THAT the Revenue and Financing Policy as consulted on alongside the Long Term Plan 2018-2028 is adopted. THAT the Fees and Charges for 2018/19 as consulted on alongside the Long Term Plan 2018-2028 are adopted. THAT the Financial Strategy 2018-2028 is adopted. THAT the Infrastructure Strategy 2018-2048 is adopted. THAT the Long Term Plan 2018-2028 is adopted. THAT the Rates Remission Policy, Rates Postponement Policy and Policy on the Remission and Postponement of Rates on Māori Freehold Land, as consulted on alongside the Long Term Plan 2018-2028, are adopted. THAT the Chief Executive, and/or the General Manager Finance, are authorised to enter into any debt facilities or borrowing that are required to implement the Annual Plan for the 2018/19 year that are in accordance with the Council’s Liability Management Policy.

Marianne Cavanagh 100

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28 2. Confirmation of the Leading Edge Strategy

THAT the revised Leading Edge Strategy is approved subject to the following amendment:

Promote environmentally sustainable practices to divert more waste from landfill and to position disposal as the last choice behind reduced waste producing habits, reuse of products, and recycling is added to “Actions” under the “Environmental” pillar.

Stephanie Macdonald- Rose The Leading Edge Strategy has been updated and finalised.

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THAT a survey of large businesses is undertaken to obtain their views of the Leading Edge Strategy.

A survey is currently being developed in conjunction with Whanganui & Partners.

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29 3. LGNZ Remit Approval

THAT the remits – • Drug Testing in the Community • Heavy Commercial Vehicles

(HCV) – Rural Road Policy • Climate Change – Advocate to

Banks • Climate Change Adaptation

Fund • Local Alcohol Policies • Biofuels • Single Use Plastics • Mandatory Register of Cooling

Towers • Copper in Brake Pads • Reducing the Waste Stream • Tyres Stewardship – are supported by the Whanganui District Council at the Local Government New Zealand 2018 Annual General Meeting. THAT Council representatives at the Local Government New Zealand 2018 Annual General Meeting have the discretion to not support a previously agreed to remit should further information arise at this meeting to warrant an alternative decision being required.

THAT Council approves Cr Duncan, Cr Baker-Hogan and Mayor Hamish McDouall to attend the Local Government NZ Conference in Christchurch in July 2018. Mayor Hamish McDouall is the voting delegate for the Local Government NZ AGM.

Stephanie Macdonald-Rose

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30 4. Delegation of Powers to Independent Commissioner

THAT in accordance with section 34A of the Resource Management Act 1991, the Whanganui District Council delegates its functions, power and duties to independent commissioner Rob van

Johanna Verhoek Rob van Voorthuysen has been appointed as the independent commissioner to hear,

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Voorthuysen, to hear, consider, and decide the resource consent application to demolish the Class B heritage building on the site at 1 Victoria Avenue, Whanganui.

consider and decide the resource consent application.

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THAT a submission is prepared on the Ministry for the Environment’s Draft National Planning Standards which supports the Draft National Planning Standards and seeks amendments in areas where improvements would be beneficial.

Hester den Ouden 100

Discussion Action 6: Plan Change 53 – Springvale Structure Plan: Victoria Edmonds (Policy Planner)

responded to questions. In reply to Cr Taylor’s query, Miss Edmonds said cultural impact reports and cultural values reports were different. Once cultural values had been established, a higher level cultural impact report would determine what the impacts would be on the established values. A variety of cultural value assessments had been undertaken and there had been conversations with Iwi to determine whether an overarching values report for the entirety of Whanganui could be considered. It would then be a matter of undertaking the impact reports. Values did not change but impacts did. While the cultural values for Springvale would not necessarily be the same as Otamatea, they often reached widely across spaces and could be similar. Cr Bennett queried whether Springvale residents were aware of the Springvale Structure Plan and the timetable. Miss Edmonds said a second letter was sent to Springvale residents on 9 August 2018, advising another community public forum session to be held 22 August 2018. The new map would be rolled out at this public forum with discussion on timeframes and feedback sought on this.

Cr Joblin said a recent seminar she had attended referred to imposing sales tax when new

developments occurred such as what was proposed for Springvale and for those people who could now subdivide sections that previously could not be subdivided. Hester den Ouden (Senior Policy Planner) said the Council negotiated development agreements with developers who contributed a proportion of the sales towards paying for new infrastructure. This would also be the case for subdividing sections that previously could not be subdivided.

Action 8: Forestry Harvesting – David Matthews queried whether the Council could

actually ask the forestry industry to manage its impact on the roading network when it had been resolved to rate the industry to enable roading repairs. Mayor McDouall said if the impact on the roading network lowered then annually the Council could look at altering the rating impost on forestry owners.

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Council’s Resolution Proposed by Mayor McDouall, seconded by Cr Joblin:

8.1 THAT the information is noted. CARRIED

9. Representative Update

Elected Members will provide a brief verbal update on conferences/forums attended, or the activities of those organisations / groups for which they are a Council representative. LGNZ 2018 Conference held in Christchurch on 15 – 17 July 2018 Cr Jenny Duncan reports: Mayor Hamish, Deputy Mayor Jenny Duncan and Cr Philippa Baker-Hogan attended the LGNZ 2018 Conference in Christchurch from 15 – 17 July 2018. The conference had a focus on ‘Localism’ and ‘Three Waters’. LGNZ launched the ‘Localism’ project at the conference. It is a process that will take nearly two years to complete. The following link is to its position statement. At only three pages it is a quick, informative read of the intended process and rationale. We do have some hard copies. http://www.lgnz.co.nz/assets/Uploads/46672-LGNZ-Localism-launch-document.pdf The following link is to all the videos of almost all of the presentations, except the AGM, where our remit passed at 95% support and the optional workshops. I suggest browsing the summaries below, and then watching two or three of the video presentations. Some of them are very good, but we all have our own areas of affinity. The Mayor and Deputy attended the Climate Change workshop. The take-home messages for the Deputy were: 1. Preparedness and Adaptation – It’s not a matter of if, but when, so where there is

risk in our community we need to prepare. But, initiating prevention is not always popular. For example, Matata in the Bay of Plenty.

2. Currently Territorial Authorities bear the risk of both acting and not acting. For example, putting a potential flooding or subsidence note on a LIM protects the buyer but affects the seller, who can challenge Council. However, if the note wasn’t on the LIM, the buyer could challenge Council. Central Government must correct this and allow Councils to protect their communities.

http://www.lgnz.co.nz/about-lgnz/lgnz-conference-2/2018-lgnz-conference/videos-conference-2018/ Index of Presentations on link are listed below:

Policy on Determining Significance – In terms of the Significance and Engagement Policy 2018, the decision is not significant.

http://www.lgnz.co.nz/assets/Uploads/46672-LGNZ-Localism-launch-document.pdf

http://www.lgnz.co.nz/about-lgnz/lgnz-conference-2/2018-lgnz-conference/videos-conference-2018/

http://www.lgnz.co.nz/about-lgnz/lgnz-conference-2/2018-lgnz-conference/videos-conference-2018/

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1. Government's address Hon Grant Robertson, Minister of Finance Minister Robertson addressed the conference in the place of the Prime Minister who was still on maternity leave.

2. LGNZ President's address

Dave Cull, President, LGNZ 3. Opening keynote address: Building resilience for a vibrant and prosperous future

Sam Johnson, social entrepreneur Sam is a well-known identity and has grown somewhat since his brave move to initiate the Student Army after the first Christchurch earthquake.

4. Creating resilient, sustainable and liveable places

Kylie Legge, Director, Place Partners This one is aimed at those involved in the Town Centre or Castlecliff rejuvenation type projects. It details how Place Partners have implemented transformation projects in small and large communities. These are not always big budget spends and are very focused on people connectivity, rather than big infrastructure projects. This has real value to Whanganui.

5. Building a strong community - a tale of a new region

Chair: Joanna Norris, Chief Executive, ChristchurchNZ and 4 others Joanna is a powerful and impressive speaker. The promo video she played during her presentation was of high quality. Other presenters from the Christchurch Council gave their perspectives on building a strong community.

6. Building strong local economic prosperity

Michael Dunlop – Director, Acumen Republic, Oliver Hartwich – Executive Director and Martine Udahemuka – Research Fellow, The New Zealand Initiative

Of particular interest was the Dunlop presentation that looked closely at the Swiss example of localised governance. It showed how a greater devolution of responsibilities to a very local level, along with the appropriate funding and controls, enables the solving of local issues through a local lens.

7. Inspiring Maori connections to grow thriving, prosperous communities

Associate Professor Te Maire Tau, Director, Ngai Tahu Research Centre 8. Leading our response to climate change: adapting to the changing environment

Hon James Shaw, Minister for Climate Change; Dave Cull, President, LGNZ 9. Working together to tackle Three Waters infrastructure challenges facing New

Zealand Jonson Cox, Chairman, Ofwat, UK This was quite a controversial presentation. It was very technical and content-full about the privatisation of water services in the UK. The content lost most people

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present. However, for anyone who is keenly interested in the Three Waters, and where their future lies, I suggest braving this in-depth presentation.

10. Minister of Local Government's address

Hon Nanaia Mahuta, Minister of Local Government This very much shows a Minister who is pleased to be in the role and understands Local Government. Her support of the return of the 4-Wellbeings was strong – local communities are best placed to deal with local issues, in collaboration and partnership with Central Government. But we need to be funded. She also expressed concern about the Three Waters, and in particular, storm and fresh water.

11. Inspiring health and wellbeing of our communities

Deidre Otene, CEO, Te Kotahitanga e Mahi Kaha Trust Deidre discussed inter-generational change in areas of high deprivation but high connectedness. She covered initiatives such as Lance O’Sullivan’s i-moko health access software and Life Coaching and pastoral care for every youth as part of Te Kotahi to ensure their success.

12. Harnessing localism and empowering communities to succeed

Cr Angela O'Leary, Hamilton City Council; Julie Nelson, Joint Chief Executive, Wise Group; Michelle Sharp, Trustee of Akina Foundation; Margaret Jefferies, Chair of Project Lyttleton; Michelle Bruce and Katelyn Twiss, Selwyn Youth Council

13. Closing keynote: Shaping the future of our communities

Daniel Flynn, Founder and Managing Director of Thankyou Daniel was a finale highlight. You may have heard of the way he sells his book – Chapter One. You get to choose how much you pay for it. The price so far has ranged from 5 cents to $10,000. Daniels presentation can only be viewed via the LGNZ member portal.

A worthwhile conference. Developing New Zealand – Transport, Infrastructure, Economic Development and Investments – Wellington 30-31 May, 2018 Cr Kate Joblin reports: The conference had a wide variety of speakers and interactive sessions with panel discussions. Philippa Ivory, Whanganui & Partners General Manager, also attended the conference. Below are some notes from the presentations. I am happy to discuss any aspect with councillors at another time. • The general theme of “Partnerships, Investment and Funding” was the importance

for councils to provide certainty to the private sector regarding community infrastructure.

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• Get used to some roads sometimes being inundated. • Encourage and support communities to be resilient. • Council needs to understand diversity and support it. • Make your city the best it can be to live in so that talent can be attracted. • The world is rapidly urbanising. • Get the infrastructure right so we are not competing with our neighbours. • Sharon Zollner, ANZ Economist – Look beyond the cycle, disruption is coming – be

thinking about adding value and technology – sacks of milk powder will not cut it in the future.

• Rotorua co-invested with the DHB in a library and collocated children health services to the library. Rotorua also seemed to have some good examples of progress with economic development activities.

• The benefits of PPPs – Public, Private, Partnerships – they spread the risk against a number of investors and the expertise and experience of private sector can be utilised in the public sector. A number of models are used overseas to finance projects.

• Voice to computer is the next big shift (replacing the typing of text). With the pace of change, don’t overinvest on the way – for example, electric car charging stations because battery life is increasing quickly.

• The business case for walkability has not been measured in terms of economic benefit, historically. The Auckland experience of measuring the economic benefit of walking has merit and, while Auckland is quite different to Whanganui, there will be lessons we can benefit from. I, therefore, suggest it could be worth bringing the presenter to Whanganui. They found that more pedestrian connectivity in CBD equated to 10% increase in productivity. Refer to the attached presentation (Ref D).

• The importance of having a focus on being business friendly should not be over-rated. • Justin Lester talked about seeking to grow a social housing programme, in

partnership with others. He made the point that 80% of housing is publicly owned in Singapore. 25% of housing in Paris is publicly owned.

• Get artists and urban designers involved in every infrastructure project. • Pay close attention to unarticulated need. Ask the right questions. • Prepare for the next wave of future transport technologies. We don’t necessarily

need more public transport, however we do need the technology to understand what types of transport we want and how to incentivise this.

• Think about a value capture mechanism where a public amenity gets funded from general rates – is a targeted rate, sales tax the appropriate mechanism? The tax needs to be imposed when the value is created.

References – Agenda Attachments

D ‘The Business Case of Walking’ Presentation by Darren Davis

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SOLGM Climate Change and Local Government Forum – 21 and 22 June 2018 Cr Josh Chandulal-Mackay reports: I attended this Forum alongside a cohort of Local Government Managers from across New Zealand. The Forum was split into a thorough and well researched series of segments on different aspects of climate change and their impacts on local government. I have a copy of the programme which I'm happy to provide to Elected Members, in summary the highlights were as follows: Tom Dyer, Group Manager 3 Waters at Dunedin City Council covered climate impacts in South Dunedin, in particular an increase in: 1. Rainfall intensity. 2. Permeability – high tides from intense rainfall sees groundwater level increases

(pressures on stormwater systems)

Mr Dyer provided models for wave run-up on the seafront from 2016, through to 2050, and 2100 – the floodplain increases dramatically. Mr Dyer also stressed the need to be aware of human challenges – sentimentality of location for people in residential areas affected by climate change, that we need to have a conversation around sea level rises across New Zealand. Climate adaptation was a key feature across the developed of Dunedin City Council's Long-term Plan. Catherine Lorns from the School of Law Victoria University spoke about some of the legal considerations that Local Authorities should consider in climate mitigation and adaptation: - Best Practice - begin reducing emissions to mitigate risk of liability further down the

track. Best practice is halving emissions every decade. - Follow best practice. Ministry for the Environment released best practice guide in

December 2017 - more info can be found at: http://www.mfe.govt.nz/climate-change/what-government-doing/adapting-climate-change/adaptation-and-local-government to ensure that the Court does not determine liability in future.

Zoning – going to need to re-zone areas to prevent residential development in high risk areas as climate impacts escalate, process will inevitably be questioned by the Environment Court. Currently no clear statutory direction to undertake a re-zoning programme in response to climate change, but proactivity is needed. If decisions are made on the basis of best practice then the decision can be justified. Jeff Farrell – Manager Strategic Projects at Whakatāne District Council spoke at length about issues relating to the implementation of managed retreat: Political risk, precedent, requires courage, requires end-to-end policy framework, requires 'staying power'. District Plan change, Regional Plan change, indicative business case.

https://apc01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.mfe.govt.nz%2Fclimate-change%2Fwhat-government-doing%2Fadapting-climate-change%2Fadaptation-and-local-government&data=02%7C01%7C%7C05e39302577b4fcd5acc08d601123d98%7C84df9e7fe9f640afb435aaaaaaaaaaaa%7C1%7C0%7C636697575187863286&sdata=u8dja1iE2PGjNCk%2FxfxPTlSPhTHUjUSaxeX0D66D4%2BQ%3D&reserved=0



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- Properties paying rates – therefore ratepayers can argue for increased services to mitigate risk of flooding.

- Routine line item in Annual Plans and Long-term Plans. - Compensation" – not a term used by Whakatāne District Council, implies that

someone is at fault, rather they refer to "incentives to move" which is a part of their strategy.

The Climate Change and Insurance Panel was particularly insightful. The Panel consisted of the following: Tim Grafton – Chief Executive, Insurance Council of NZ Catherine Iorns – Reader School of Law, Victoria University Belinda Storey – Managing Director Climate Sigma Professor Ian Now – Chair in Economics of Disasters, Victoria University The key insights were: Two types of insurance situations in areas at high risk of climate change impact (e.g. Flooding or subsidence). Unavailability of insurance, partial retreat e.g. significant increase in excesses. Currently no expectation or indication of an insurance retreat for infrastructure. There may be credit retreats from banks in response to insurance retreats – shorter term mortgages, higher LVRs • This could impact infrastructure investments if habitability is decreases due to the

above conditions. This was a hugely beneficial Forum for me to attend with valuable supporting material provided. The topics are relevant to our local context and worth applying the learnings to our policies and strategic development.

Meeting with Minister of Building and Construction, Hon Jenny Salesa Cr Helen Craig provided a verbal report on a meeting held 7 August 2018 with Hon Jenny Salesa, Minister for Building and Construction. Cr Craig, as Acting Mayor, had attended along with Mayors from Tararua, Manawatu and Rangitikei to put forward a submission that the Building Act and its relationship to the earthquake amendment were causing concern to these regions. The content of the Council’s remit had been included along with a number of other factors where relief was also being sought. Cr Craig said Tararua, Manawatu and Rangitikei were in high earthquake zones and the short timetable to effect earthquake strengthening was causing these communities considerable stress. Whanganui is in a medium earthquake zone and whilst it had longer timeframes, it had a huge number of buildings in the town centre that would be affected. The Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE) were also in attendance and Minister Salesa instructed them to undertake a study of the case presented. The mayors were hopeful of a positive result. Whanganui District Council was currently collating the data to be sent to MBIE. A copy of the summary report of the meeting with Minister Salesa is available.

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Nagaizumi-cho Visit Cr Rob Vinsen provided a verbal report on the Council’s delegation to Nagaizumi, Japan, to celebrate the 30-year anniversary of Whanganui/Nagaizumi Sister City relationship. Cr Vinsen said he had imagined Nagaizumi, a town of 45,000 people, would be similar to Whanganui surrounded in countryside. It was however like a suburb of a large metropolitan area with the 115 kilometre trip from Tokyo to Nagaizumi almost continuous ‘town’. The Council’s delegation was very well treated. At least 200 people welcomed the Whanganui group and Nagaizumi Mayor Osamu Ikeda made it clear in the warmth of his address the importance of this visit to them and the sister-city relationship. A packed three-day itinerary was planned for the Whanganui group. Cr Vinsen said the word that came to mind from this trip was ‘generosity’. Not just the funding of the visit, but the generosity of spirit Nagaizumi contributed to the Whanganui group. Cr Vinsen said the bar had been set very high and it would be a challenge for Whanganui to match this but this must be done. There was no doubt about the value of the relationship to Whanganui from those who had just visited or had done so in the past. A contingent of Nagaizumi people would be arriving for the New Zealand Masters Games in February 2019 and he urged all to be involved in giving these people a warm welcome to Whanganui, reciprocating the friendship they had shown the Whanganui delegation. Bushy Park Trust Cr Alan Taylor advised his term as the Council’s appointee to the Bushy Park Trust would shortly expire. There had been considerable refurbishment at Bushy Park during his time on the Trust. With regard to the environment and built heritage, Bushy Park was a premier heritage area of Whanganui. The Trust would be seeking another Council appointee.

Council’s Resolution Proposed by Mayor McDouall, seconded by Cr Duncan:

9.1 THAT the information is noted. CARRIED

Policy on Determining Significance – In terms of the Significance and Engagement Policy 2018, the decision is not significant.

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Minutes of Committees for Adoption / Receipt Wanganui Rural Community Board – 20 June 2018 Wanganui Rural Community Board – 1 August 2018 David Matthews, Wanganui Rural Community Board’s Chair, presented the minutes of the Wanganui Rural Community Board’s meetings held on 20 June 2018 and 1 August 2018. Discussion

Mr Matthews summarised the main items of discussion at the Board’s meetings held 20 June 2018 and 1 August 2018 and responded to questions. Responding to Mr Matthews’ comments on Whanganui & Partners’ (W&P) presentation on rural economic development initiatives, Cr Craig considered W&P had been struggling with how best to manage rural sector economic development. It had been left to W&P to meet the challenge but with a relatively new structure in place more time was needed. Cr Bennett raised a concern on the condition of the Parapara Road (State Highway 4). He said little attempt had been made to repair the dropouts and subsidence that had occurred during the 2015 weather event. Cr Bennett considered the Council itself should advise its concern to New Zealand Transport Agency’s (NZTA) attention. Mr Matthews agreed that while some of the original washouts had been fixed, the road was in poor condition. Speaking with his neighbours on this matter, it had been suggested a local meeting between the community and NZTA should be held to inform the community what NZTA planned for the Parapara Road.

Council’s Resolutions Proposed by Cr Cleveland, seconded by Cr Chandulal-Mackay:

THAT the minutes of the Wanganui Rural Community Board meeting held on 20 June 2018 are received.

THAT the alternate appointments of the following Rural Community Board members, with

speaking and voting rights, are made to each of the Council’s three committees of full Council: David Wells – Strategy and Finance Committee; Grant Skilton – Property and Community Services Committee; and subject to his confirmation, Bill Ashworth – Infrastructure Committee.

ACTION: Governance THAT the minutes of the Wanganui Rural Community Board meeting held on 1 August 2018

are received. CARRIED

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Statutory Management Committee Meeting – 25 June 2018 (Road Naming and Numbering Policy 2018)

Mayor McDouall, Chair of the Statutory Management Committee, presented the minutes of the meeting held on 25 June 2018.

Discussion Cr Taylor queried whether the Committee had taken into consideration the request by Iwi

submitters to the Otamatea Structure Plan that road names exclusively reflected their cultural values. Mayor McDouall said this was not part of the Road Naming and Numbering Policy, however, a preference for original names and Maori names was one of the five key criteria for road naming.

Council’s Resolution Proposed by Mayor McDouall, seconded by Cr Craig:

THAT the minutes of the Statutory Management Committee meeting held on 25 June 2018 to hear submissions and deliberate on the Road Naming and Numbering Policy 2018, are received. THAT in accordance with the Statutory Management Committee’s Term of Reference the Committee has determined that the Council adopts the Road Naming and Numbering Policy 2018.

CARRIED ACTION: George Forster Youth Committee – 11 June 2018 Yth Crs Rhea Colaabavala and Ara Molijn (Co-Chairs) presented the minutes of the Youth Committee’s meeting held on 11 June 2018. Discussion A summary of Youth Committee’s activities and progress was provided. These included:

• 120 participants from five schools had taken part in the successful interschool forum ‘Youth Connect’ held 27 July 2018. Workshops topics focussed on education, sustainability, mental health, gender, leadership, bullying and future pathways. Youth Councillors had worked with Alex Staric (Policy Advisor Research and Engagement) to create a survey that was completed by students participating in ‘Youth Connect’. Positive feedback had been received from both students and teachers and results would be compiled into a report to Council and school principals in the hope that this will feed into development and improvement in the forum’s areas of focus. The information would be invaluable for future discussion and Youth Committee submissions.

• Submissions had been made to the Council’s Representation Review and the draft Safer Whanganui Strategic Plan. The Youth Committee also planned to submit to the National Certificates of Educational Achievement (NCEA) Review using information collected at the ‘Youth Connect’ forum.

• Vibe Festival – the working party was in the process of securing external funding to ensure success of the event. Discussions had taken place with music artists and

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response had been received from multiple high-profile acts keen to participate in this event. Auditions for youth performance had also been held and the Youth Committee was excited to offer a unique opportunity for talented young people.

• The Youth Committee’s logo redesign was in its final stages. This would enable the Youth Committee to be more easily recognisable, visible and accessible in the community. New t-shirts were to be designed and the new branding launched on social media later in 2018.

• Yth Cr Connor Hoskin’s resignation had been received and applications to fill this vacancy on the Youth Committee were now open.

Yth Crs Rhea Colaabavala and Ara Molijn responded to questions. The majority of Youth

Councillors were on the Vibe Working Party, led by Yth Cr Josephine Verhaaren. Cr Josh Chandulal-Mackay was also a member.

Council’s Resolution Proposed by Cr Chandulal-Mackay, seconded by Mayor McDouall:

THAT the minutes of the Youth Committee Meeting held on 11 June 2018 are received, and the recommendations and reports contained therein, are adopted.

CARRIED

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Public Excluded Items – Motion to Exclude the Public Proposed by Mayor McDouall, seconded by Cr Anderson: THAT the public be excluded from the following parts of the proceedings of this meeting, namely:

General subject of each matter considered

Reason for passing this resolution in relation to each matter

Ground(s) under section 48(1) for the passing of this resolution

10. Whanganui District Council Holdings Limited Report

Good reason to withhold exists under section 7.

That the public conduct of the relevant part of the proceedings of the meeting would be likely to result in the disclosure of information for which good reason for withholding exists. Section 48(1)(a)




12. Representative Update continued.



13. Actions Arising from Previous Minutes – Confidential

Good reason to withhold exists under section7.


14. Chief Executive Report



15. Chief Executive Review Committee Report



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This resolution is made in reliance on sections 48(1)(a) of the Local Government Official Information and Meetings Act 1987 (LGOIMA) and the particular interest or interests protected by section 7 of that Act, which would be prejudiced by the holding of the relevant part of the proceedings of the meeting in public are as follows:

10. Whanganui District Council Holdings Limited Report

Enable any local authority holding the information to carry on, without prejudice or disadvantage, negotiations (including commercial and industrial negotiations). (Section 7(2)(i))


Enable any local authority holding the information to carry out, without prejudice or disadvantage, commercial activities. (Schedule 7(2)(h))

12. Representative Update continued

Protect information which is subject to an obligation of confidence or which any person has been or could be compelled to provide under the authority of any enactment, where the making available of the information – (i) would be likely to prejudice the supply of similar information, or information

from the same source, and it is in the public interest that such information should continue to be supplied. (Section 7(2)(c))

13. Actions Arising from Previous Minutes – Confidential

Protect information where the making available of the information (ii) would be likely unreasonably to prejudice the commercial position of the

person who supplied or who is the subject of the information. (Section 7(2)(b))


14. Chief Executive’s Report

Protect the privacy of natural persons, including that of deceased natural persons (Schedule 7(2)(a)) Protect information where the making available of the information (ii) would be likely unreasonably to prejudice the commercial position of the

person who supplied or who is the subject of the information. (Section 7(2)(b))


15. Chief Executive Review Committee Report

Protect the privacy of natural persons, including that of deceased natural persons (Schedule 7(2)(a))

THAT Annette Main (Chair, Whanganui District Council Holdings Ltd) and Phill Bedford (Chief Executive Officer, New Zealand International Commercial Pilot Academy), remain in the meeting after the public has been excluded to present Item 10: Whanganui District Council Holdings Limited Report.

CARRIED

The meeting adjourned at 3.32pm and resumed at 3.49pm.

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Motion to Reopen the Meeting to the Public Proposed by Cr Reid, seconded by Cr Duncan: THAT the meeting be reopened to the public and the preamble, discussion and resolutions associated with Item 10: Whanganui District Council Holdings Limited Report, Item 11: Whanganui District Councils’ Forestry Joint Committee Report continued, Item 12: Representative Update continued, Item 13: Actions Arising from Previous Minutes (Confidential), Item 14: Chief Executive’s Report and Item 15: Chief Executive Review Committee Report remain confidential until all parties have either accepted the terms of the proposals or agreed to cease negotiations. The Mayor or Chief Executive may then release press reports on the matter.

CARRIED The meeting closed at 5.46pm.

Minutes of the Meeting of the Whanganui District Council ...€¦ · 2018-08-14 · Puanga...

Documents

Transcript of Minutes of the Meeting of the Whanganui District Council ...€¦ · 2018-08-14 · Puanga...