Decisions, Decisions …
We have an extremely busy year ahead with numerous BIG decisions to be made – even if
you have never previously been involved with local government, make 2025 the year to participate.
The 2024-2035 Long Term Plan (LTP) is open for consultation during February and March.
This document sets our future rates and determines priorities for council spending – it is important everyone takes this opportunity to provide input. If you have never engaged in a consultation process and want to know more about how to get involved, speak to the Community Board or your councillors – it is important to have your say.
Local Waters Done Well (LWDW) is another critical consultation happening in March – SWDC will be looking for feedback on two water service delivery models, options:
* Wai + T water service delivery joint arrangement;
* Status quo model which is non-asset owning (like Wellington Water).
You can find more information about LWDW on the council website – swdc.govt.nz/local-water-done-well/
Let’s demonstrate how collectively engaged the Martinborough Community is – anything you don’t understand please ask – our councillors have been working hard on the LTP and LWDW, they will be able to explain the content of consultation documents.
Come along to drop-in sessions or contact any elected member – sign up to “Have your say” on the council website to keep up to date with what is happening – haveyoursay.swdc.govt.nz/
The biggest decision comes later in the year when we have local elections – you get to choose who will represent you as elected members for the next three years.
Have you thought about putting yourself forward? Maybe you know someone who would be a great elected member:encourage them to get involved.
The more we can encourage engagement via consultation and local body elections collectively we become a stronger voice for democratic decision making – lets stand together and make our voices heard.
Finally In the words of that great political commentator, Dr Seuss – “So, open your mouth lad, for every vote counts!”
