16/06/2005

Oto considers community's concerns

Otorohanga  District Council has begun considering public submissions on its draft annual plan. Having  received about 14 submissions, seven parties were heard by councillors and council employees at a meeting held last week.
Heres what some of the submitters had to say.

Kiwi House support
The Otorohanga Zoological Society asked council for support in order to enhance the facilities at the Kiwi House, Society president Nancy Jensen addressed council asking they include provision in the annual plan for a partnership strategy that would see the Kiwi House re-developed to regain its national premier standard.
Mrs Jensen thanked council for the assistance they already provide to the society.
With plans to improve and expand the existing facilities, provide training for staff, enhance breeding programmes, expand education programmes, develop alliances, embrace local stakeholders, reach a broader section of the public and position itself as a'must see' stop on the southern tourist route, Mrs Jensen said it is important for the society to show it has the support of the community in order to secure funding.
She said redeveloping the Kiwi House to its "icon status" would benefit the broader Otorohanga community by bringing more visitors to the area.

Road unwanted by ODC
Representatives from New Zealand Forest Managers asked the council to consider upgrading and maintaining Waitaheke Rd.
Waitaheke Rd, located off Okoko Rd near the Pirongia Forest Park, is a private road originally constructed and maintained by Glencoal Energy Limited.
Glencoal Energy Limited operated the Waitaheke Opencast Mine until 1996.
On completion of mining activities, Glencoal Energy advised council they no further had use for Waitaheke Rd, however council has continued to decline to maintain it.
During last week's meeting, engineering manager Ian Gooden said council had continued to decline ownership or maintenance of the road because it was not up to a reasonable standard.
Jackie Egan, environmental planner for New Zealand Forest Managers, addressed council on behalf of their clients American Timber Investment Management Organisation (TIMO) - owners of Pirongia Forest.
TIMO will require the use of the road in about four years time to carry out work in the Pirongia Forest.
Ms Egan asked council to consider upgrading and maintaining Waitaheke Rd, given that several ratepayers use it.