Local Bodies

http://www.stuff.co.nz/southland-times/opinion/4048767/For-want-of-a-nail You get what you vote for ....and if you don't vote, you can't complain!

The ongoing debate around the collection of curbside waste continues. Despite past surveys, extensive consultation, many visits to view other city's collection systems there has been a reluctance from the Invercargill City Council to make a decision and stick with it. The original three bins proposal appeared to be a solid attempt to deal with the problematic green waste that is a headache for many residents and a huge methane producing problem at the dumping site. Past surveys had supported green waste collection and other towns do this and create useful compost. However a number of ratepayers objected to the inevitable increase in charges or having to pay for a system they personally wouldn't use and a growing controversy developed. The council became split and Geoff Piercy valiantly stuck up for a system and a decision process he had led with mixed reactions from rate payers. The debate continued for sometime and other Councillors reported on the potential difficulties...

Today I received our latest rates bill and while it is never pleasant having to pay out large sums of money (we pay almost $2000 per year) it caused me to reflect on what I receive for my money. A well stocked and managed public library often used by my whole family on a regular basis. A sports stadium and pool both regularly used by family members. Our rubbish and some recyclabe plastics collected from our house. A reliable supply of water to our house and our waste piped away. Cycleways and paths used by our whole family for recreation and getting from one place to another in relative safety. Parks that are the envy of many where we often walk in an evening or attend the many theatrical or family events held within them. Anderson Park Art Gallery and the Southland Museum, both wonderful facilities we visit on a regular basis. Our street is regularly swept and trees planted and maintained. A theatre that is only one of two in the South Island that can host full Ballets that my wife su...

I have decided that it is time to resurrect this blog in time for the next local body elections. The historical posts contained here make interesting reading, especially in light of the devisive issue of green waste and the three bins. I started this blog a little late in the election process last time and plan to be more organised this time round.

The votes have been counted, the dust has settled and what have we got? Virtually the same council as before with the two retirees replaced by Thelma Buck and Lindsay Abbot, and both of them have served before. It appears that the people of Invercargill do not like change. Invercargill has been riding a wave of prosperity in recent years, rising house prices, the rapid expansion of dairying and the success of the SIT has put new heart into our city. However, the concerns regarding the transparency of governance (many closed meetings), planning and auditing problems and the big odour issue, cause many to ask if it has been good luck or good management that has carried us through. There have been some strong views expressed on this blog about what should be done in the years ahead from many of our elected councillors. I would be expecting to see the following occur in the near future: 1. Invercargill joining the Communities for Climate Protection scheme. 2. Greater funding and support fo...

We are being told that tomorrow is the last possible day for mailing voting forms to ensure your votes are counted. I have heard that since the mail sorting is now done in Dunedin it may take longer for a letter to be delivered, lets hope there are no delays. The talk around the country has been around the general apathy around local body politics. Some say it's because people are happy with their civic governance and while there may be truth in that, I think it's because many people just don't know who they're voting for. It was interesting to read the responses to my survey, however while this was a useful guide, it is what the candidates do once elected that really counts and sometimes those that make the most noise don't always live up to their own hype. I find it useful to read a range of political journalists who report on the performance of our national politicians. These journalists spend some time observing the debating chamber and following the progress of...

Anna Andrews had not received my survey when I sent it out originally and I apologize to her if the error was mine. The answers she provided (after only receiving the questions today) are published below. BSprout Anna Andrews replies: 1. Most certainly. It is imperative that the Council leads the way not only for its own savings but it must be seen to encourage all new buildings whether commercial or residential to also follow regulations which will help to preserve the future of our planet. 2. All three mentioned facilities are quite adequately financed at present. The gardens are a credit to Invercargill along with the swimming pool and its two galleries. However, other cultural facilities which could possibly be encouraged would be the visits of top groups/bands which many of the younger age group would like to see visiting here. 3. In the vast majority of cases, businesses are profit driven. When they make a profit do they offer it to the Council? Alas no! However, Vibrant So...