A Word from the Mayor: A time to strengthen connections!
A time to strengthen connections!
With Matariki to be celebrated this year on the 13 July it makes me consider the time we are in. In challenging and unsettling times like these I wonder if we can be inspired by our Maori ancestors when in the bleakest of seasons, they focused on restoration and strengthening connections with one another. Our wonderful community team at the Hurunui District Council have spent the past few weeks strengthening many connections via zoom to check in and understand how they can support and work collaboratively with communities to assist with their recovery. The team will play a crucial leadership role in advocacy and support for business and communities.
Each year we develop in partnership with our district an annual plan which is guided by the overarching long term plan. This year our engagement was somewhat hobbled by Covid 19 and the uncertainty with the levels and the ability to meet in large numbers however, I am grateful to community members who attended our engagement sessions and also to individuals who provided written feedback, we were heartened by the depth of understanding and support or positive feedback for councilors to consider. Being able to settle on an increase of 3.74% and continue to provide a high level of service for core activities and reinstate some grants is a very measured result in these uncertain times.
Currently council are seeking expression of interests for the 2020 Community Service Awards, plus the Environment and Heritage awards, with the ceremony to be hosted later in the year, I ask that you look around your communities to find deserving people to nominate or projects that will fit the criteria. Community members are also invited to provide feedback on the Council Speed Limits bylaw and register along with the Hanmer Springs design standards review, both these consultation documents may be found on the council website. www.hurunui.govt.nz/report/consultations
I am pleased to announce the appointment of Hamish Dobbie to the role as Chief Executive Officer, for a further term. I know that you will join with me to congratulate him on this appointment and I look forward to working with Hamish, staff, councilors and all the Hurunui community to make our district safer, stronger and more connected than before.
Marie Black
Mayor