The Council is at present looking at next year’s budget. Following a review of spending, we have identified savings that will help keep next year’s rate increases below the levels set out in the Long Term Plan adopted last year.
However, the February weather event was a big reminder of the fragility of much of our infrastructure, so we are considering a one-off injection for infrastructure resilience. If we do this, we could still bring in the required rates income lower than anticipated. We’re interested in knowing what you think about this, so let us know.
In other news, you may have noticed that speed limit changes are being introduced around Martinborough, starting with reductions to 60kmh along Princess Street and Ponatahi Road and also from New York Street to John’s Way across Huangarua Bridge. In particular, we have looked at roads on the fringe of the town that have increasing numbers of walkers and cyclists and that need to be safe for locals and visitors.
Of course with the current oil situation, slower driving is recommended everywhere, regardless of speed limits.
Martinborough benefited from the recent round of economic development grants from the Council, with the Pour & Explore festival a big winner. This is a key event for Martinborough and the Council is keen to encourage it.
The committee that considered the grants, chaired by Martinborough Councillor Chris Archer, focussed on applications that would bring “new money’ into the district, particularly bigger anchor events with a reach beyond neighbouring Wellington to the rest of the country.
Two others in this category – Booktown and the Wairarapa Midwinter Christmas Festival – were also supported. All these events are held in winter – the off season – and therefore encourage visitors from outside the district at what would normally be a quiet time. They provide significant business for accommodation providers, restaurants, retailers and other attractions. We know how important they are for South Wairarapa.
If you have a project focussed on more social, cultural or environmental outcomes, then have a look at the Martinborough Community Board grants. The Board has an allocation of around $20,000 to distribute to the community and applications close on April 5.
