The formal consultation on its Annual Plan 2016/17, which implements year two of the 2015-25 Long Term Plan (LTP) and introduces a range of proposals to build on the progress so far, closes at 5pm next Friday 29 April.
“It’s important that the public shares their views on Council’s proposals for the next financial year,” says Mayor Celia Wade-Brown.
“The details of governance and focus of the Urban Development Agency need your input. How strong should its role of urban renewal and housing affordability be?
“A huge issue ahead is how we reduce climate change emissions, so positive suggestions are very welcome on our Low Carbon Capital plan for Council and city-wide emissions.
“There’s one week left for the public to have their say, and I urge Wellingtonians to visit the Council’s website to view the consultation document and make a submission.”
Since the consultation period launched on 29 March, the Council has convened a series of public engagement events across the city, focusing on communities of interest – including Māori, the tech sector, Pasifika, Accessibility, Young People, CBD businesses and Arts and Culture. Over 400 people have attended these events and given their views or proposed new spending initiatives.
Two of the main themes of this year’s Annual Plan are sustainability, through Council’s draft Low Carbon Capital plan, and resilience with Council’s membership of the 100 Resilient Cities programme.
The final consultation event will be a ‘virtual forum’ held on Facebook at 5pm on Wednesday, 27 April. This event focuses on sustainability, resilience and environmental issues. Councillors Iona Pannett and David Lee will lead the discussions along with senior Council staff to answer public questions. Wellingtonians are encouraged to visit the Annual Plan Facebook page and register their attendance at Annual Plan 2016/17: Facebook sustainability virtual forum.
Read more information and submit your views on the Annual Plan 2016/17.
Following the conclusion of the consultation period, submissions will be analysed and a report provided to councillors, with oral hearings set for May. Following the hearings Councillors will make final decisions on content of the Annual Plan and agree the rate levels for 2016/17 in June.