Agenda of Council meeting - Wednesday, 27 April 2022

Minutes of a meeting of the Tararua District Council held in the Council Chamber, 26 Gordon Street, Dannevirke on Wednesday 30 March 2022 commencing at 1.00pm.

1. Present

Her Worship the Mayor - Mrs T H Collis, Crs E L Peeti-Webber (Deputy Mayor), A K Franklin (via Zoom), S A Hull, C J Isaacson, P A Johns, K A Sutherland, R A Treder and S M Wards.

In Attendance

Mr B Nicholson - Chief Executive

Mr R Taylor - Manager - Democracy Services

Mr R Suppiah - Group Manager - Corporate

Mr M Maxwell - Group Manager - Economic and Community Development

Mr C Chapman - Group Manager - Infrastructure

Ms T Love - Group Manager - Operations

Ms B Smith - Finance Manager

Mr P Wimsett - Manager Strategy and Climate Change

Mr J Single - Regulatory Services Manager

Ms A Rule - Policy and Planning Advisor (via Teams)

Representatives from CR Law via audio-visual Teams link as outlined for item 11.1 - Water Supply Bylaw and consultation

2. Council Prayer and Tribute to Robert Holm

2.1	Mayor Tracey Collis opened the meeting with a Council Prayer, and observed a moment of silence as a tribute to Robert Holm (a well respected resident of the Dannevirke community who tragically lost his life in a road accident).

3. Apologies

3.1

Nil

4. Public Forum

4.1

Nil

5. Notification of Items Not on the Agenda

5.1

Nil

6. Declarations of Conflicts of Interest in Relation to this Meeting’s Items of Business

6.1

Nil

7. Personal Matters

7.1	Congratulations are conveyed to Megan Hull on being selected as co-captain of the New Zealand Black Sticks hockey team.
7.2	Cr Carole Isaacson thanked Council for its kind thoughts, flowers and condolences she received on the passing of her father.

8. Confirmation of Minutes

8.1	*That the minutes of the Council meeting held on 23 February 2022 (as circulated) be confirmed as a true and accurate record of the meeting.* *Crs Johns/Sutherland Carried*

9. Any Matters Arising from the Minutes not otherwise dealt with in the Agenda

9.1	Illicit Dumping (Item 11.5.4)
9.1.1	Places of interest where illicit dumping is frequently occurring in the district are being monitored to enable follow up action to occur whenever possible.
9.2	Tararua District Civic Honour (Item 13.2)
9.2.1	Mayor Tracey Collis is to progress discussion with Wayne Churchouse regarding determining the arrangements to present the Tararua district civic honour to acknowledge his service to the community.

10. Community Boards and Community Committees Reports

10.1	Explore Pahiatua
10.1.1	*That the report of the Explore Pahiatua meeting held on 2 March 2022 (as circulated) be received.* *Crs Wards/Peeti-Webber Carried*
10.1.2	Smith’s Track
10.1.2.1	Group Manager - Infrastructure Chris Chapman will follow up the work being undertaken to progress the Smith’s Track project.
10.1.3	Family Violence Signage
10.1.3.1	The intention for updating Family Violence signage in Pahiatua is queried, noting the existing signage has been removed.

10.2	Woodville Districts’ Vision
10.2.1	*That the report of the Woodville Districts’ Vision meeting held on 1 March 2022 (as circulated) be received.* *Crs Wards/Peeti-Webber Carried*
10.2.2	Tree Sculpture
10.2.2.1	The decision to appropriately dispose of the tree sculpture in Woodville as it is beyond economic repair is noted.

10.3

Dannevirke Community Board

10.3.1

That the report of the Dannevirke Community Board meeting held on 7 March 2022 (as circulated) be received.

Crs Wards/Peeti-Webber Carried

10.4

Eketāhuna Community Board

10.4.1

That the report of the Eketāhuna Community Board meeting held on 14 March 2022 (as circulated) be received.

Crs Wards/Peeti-Webber Carried

11. Reports

11.1	Water Supply Bylaw and Consultation
11.1.1	Shannon Johnston and Alex Sinclair from CR Law joined the meeting by audio-visual Teams link for this item of business, and responded to queries raised in discussing the draft Water Supply Bylaw.
11.1.2	That the report from the Manager Strategy and Climate Change dated 25 March 2022 concerning the Water Supply Bylaw and consultation (as circulated) be received, including the following documents: *1. Water Supply Bylaw and Consultation Officer Report* *2. Statement of Proposal - Draft Water Supply Bylaw 2022* *3. Water Supply Bylaw 2022 Draft 30 March 2022* *And that the recommendations made in the Water Supply Bylaw and Consultation Officer Report be adopted as follows:* That Council determines that a bylaw continues to be the most appropriate way to address the perceived problem of providing a dependable, cost-effective, efficient water supply system that maintains public health, safety, and the environment, and *That Council reaffirm, having regard to Section 155 of the Local Government Act 2022, that the draft Water Bylaw 2022:* - *Is the most appropriate form of water supply bylaw, and* - Does not give rise to any implications under the New Zealand Bill of Rights Act 1990 as, at most, it seeks to impose justifiable and reasonable limitations on persons in the interests of environmental quality and public health and safety. *And that Council adopt the draft Water Supply Bylaw 2022 and Statement of Proposal for consultation subject to the inclusion of the following amendments:* *Statement of Proposal Consultation Timetable* *Change submissions open date to 4 April 2022.* *Change submissions close date to 6 May 2022.* *Draft Water Supply Bylaw 2022* *Item Reference 20 - General Storage Requirements Table 2* *Change outside an urban supply area storage capacity required to 30,000 L minimum.* *Item Reference 22 - Norsewood and Pongaroa* *Add a further clause to state:* *A supply pipe* *must only be connected to a customer’s storage tank in the following manner:* a) The supply of reticulated water into the storage tank shall be controlled by a ball valve, with the ballcock installed to close the valve when the water level in the tank is at a point midway between the tank’s highest and lowest levels. b) The inlet pipe into the tank shall be at least 25 mm above the tank’s maximum water level to prevent backflow, or alternatively, a backflow prevention device must be installed on the inlet pipe. And that Council direct the Chief Executive and Council officers to commence a special consultative procedure for the draft Water Supply Bylaw 2022, revocation of the Water Supply Bylaw 2019, and associated Statement of Proposal under the Local Government Act 2002, in accordance with the agreed timeframes, and That the Chief Executive be delegated the power to make any minor changes required to the draft Water Supply Bylaw and Statement of Proposal before notification under the special consultative procedure. Crs Johns/Sutherland Carried

11.2	Council Enforcement Policy
11.2.1	*That the report from the Regulatory Services Manager dated 25 February 2022 concerning Council Enforcement Policy (as circulated) be received, and* *That the direction on principles and procedures provided to Council staff tasked with responsibilities for undertaking enforcement duties is noted.* Crs Johns/Hull Carried
11.3	Adoption of the Litter Infringement Policy
11.3.1	*That the report from the Regulatory Services Manager dated 18 March 2022 concerning the adoption of the Litter Infringement Policy (as circulated) be received, and* *That the revised Council Litter Infringement Policy attached to this report as recommended by the Strategy and Policy Committee be adopted.* Crs Johns/Hull Carried

11.4

Dog Control Bylaw and Policy

11.4.1

That the report from the Regulatory Services Manager dated 18 March 2022 concerning the Dog Control Bylaw and Policy (as circulated) be received, and

That the draft Dog Control Bylaw and Dog Control Policy attached to this report as recommended by the Strategy and Policy Committee be approved for the purpose of consultation, and

That the following dog control fees (including GST) for the year of 1 July 2022 to 30 June 2023 be adopted:

Urban Dog (entire) $130.00
Urban Dog (desexed) $110.00
Rural Domestic Dog $75.00
Over 65’s Canine Companion $85.00
Preferred Owner (entire) $75.00
Preferred Owner (desexed) $65.00
Working Dog $55.00

Crs Johns/Hull Carried

11.5

Review of Class 4 Gambling and Racing Board Venue Policy

11.5.1

That the report from the Strategy and Policy Adviser dated 18 March 2022 concerning the review of the Class 4 Gambling and Racing Board Venue Policy (as circulated) be received, and

That Council notes the trends and policy direction from the review of the Class 4 Gambling and Racing Board Venue Policy, and

That as recommended by the Strategy and Policy Committee Council confirms the current policy, including:

a) the ‘sinking lid’ target number of 100 machines, and

b) that Council will not consent to an increase in the number of gaming machines in an existing Class 4 Gambling Venue, and

c) that no new Class 4 Gambling Venue or TAB (New Zealand Racing Board) Venue may be closer than 100 metres pedestrian distance of any school, early childhood centre, kindergarten or place of worship.

And that Council approve the draft Class 4 Gambling and Racing Board Venue Policy attached to this report as Appendix 1 - Statement of Proposal for consultation, with the dates for that purpose as part of the Super Consultation Council is undertaking being as follows:

Undertake special consultation from 4 April 2022 to 6 May 2022
Hearings held on 17 May 2022
Deliberations on submissions held at Council meeting on 25 May 2022
Policy adopted at 29 June 2022 Council meeting

Crs Johns/Hull Carried

11.6

Audit and Risk Committee

11.6.1

That the report of the Audit and Risk Committee meeting held on 22 March 2022 (as circulated) be received.

Crs Wards/Johns Carried

11.7

Adoption of Council's Engagement Document and Supporting Information for the Annual Plan 2022/2023

11.7.1

That the report from the Group Manager - Corporate dated 23 March 2022 concerning the adoption of Council's Engagement Document and Supporting Information for the Annual Plan 2022/2023 (as circulated) be received, and

That the Engagement Document and Supporting Information including the Fees and Charges Schedule for the 2022/2023 financial year be adopted (subject to the correction of any typographical errors).

Crs Johns/Franklin Carried

11.8

Te Awa Community Foundation Memorandum of Understanding

11.8.1

That the report from the Group Manager - Economic and Community Development dated 18 March 2022 concerning Te Awa Community Foundation Memorandum of Understanding (as circulated) be received, and

That the Chief Executive be authorised to execute the Memorandum of Understanding between the Council and Te Awa Community Foundation as attached to this report.

Crs Hull/Treder Carried

11.9

Manawatu Wanganui Disaster Relief Fund Trust Exemption from Council Controlled Organisation Status

11.9.1

That the report from the Chief Executive dated 18 March 2022 concerning Manawatu Wanganui Disaster Relief Fund Trust Exemption from Council Controlled Organisation Status (as circulated) be received, and

That the exemption granted to the Manawatu-Wanganui Regional Disaster Relief Fund Trust from being a Council-Controlled Organisation be confirmed, the Council noting the Trust is a small organisation, the nature and scope of its activities is limited and does, in the main, take place only after significant adverse events, and there would be significant additional costs if the Trust were to be required to meet all the obligations of a Council-Controlled Organisation.

Crs Johns/Sutherland Carried

11.10

MW Lass Limited - Exempted Organisation

11.10.1

That the report from the Chief Executive dated 23 March 2022 concerning MW Lass Limited - Exempted Organisation (as circulated) be received, and

That Council approves, subject to confirmation by all Local Authority Shared Services member councils, Manawatu-Whanganui Local Authority Shared Services Limited be exempt for the purpose of Section 6(4)(i) of the Local Government Act 2002 and thus not be a Council-Controlled Organisation under that Act, and

That this exemption applies for the period ending 30 June 2025 or until member councils determine an earlier date when this exemption should no longer apply.

Crs Isaacson/Treder Carried

11.11

2022 Triennial Local Authority Elections

11.11.1

That the report from the Group Manager - Corporate dated 23 March 2022 concerning the 2022 Triennial Local Authority Elections (as circulated) be received, and

That Council note the timetable of key dates for the 2022 Triennial Local Authority Elections, and

That the names of the Tararua District Council candidates for the 2022 Local Authority Elections and any subsequent by-elections be arranged on the voting paper in random order.

Crs Johns/Hull Carried

11.12

Road Closure Requested Under the Tenth Schedule of the Local Government Act 1974

11.12.1

That the report from the Alliance Asset Manager dated 18 March 2022 concerning a road closure application under the Tenth Schedule of the Local Government Act 1974 (as circulated) be received, and

That pursuant to Section 342 (1) (b) and the Tenth Schedule of the Local Government Act 1974, Council closes the following road for the purpose of allowing Dannevirke Car Club Incorporated to hold a motor sport event.

Road name: Speedy Road, Dannevirke

Date of closure: Sunday 22 May 2022

Period of closure: 9.00am to 6.00pm

Conditions Applied to the Granting of this Road Closure

That Tararua Alliance in conjunction with the organiser will assess shortly prior to this event the condition of the road involved to determine its suitability for this purpose.
That if Tararua Alliance identify the road as being in an unsuitable condition arising from this assessment then they have the discretion to request the organiser to withdraw the road from the route of this event.
That shortly after the event has been held Tararua Alliance shall carry out a drive over of the road that was closed for this event to assess its condition.

Advisory Note

That should the Council incur any additional maintenance costs as a consequence of the event then those expenses shall be recovered from the event organiser.

Crs Hull/Sutherland Carried

11.13	Staff Report
11.13.1	Huarahi - Tūhono Weber to Wimbledon (Route 52 Upgrade) Project
11.13.1.1	A very successful community information session was held in Wimbledon to update the locals on progress being made to undertake this project.
11.13.2	Eketāhuna Stormwater Improvements (3-Waters Stimulus Fund Project)
11.13.2.1	Much of the construction to undertake stormwater improvements in Eketāhuna’s Main Street have been completed, and work is currently planned to finish that project in April (dependent on further supply chain disruption not occurring).
11.13.2.2	Staff have not been made aware of any flooding issues during February’s heavy rain, indicating that work completed to date has already made a positive impact.
11.13.3	Mangatainoka Cemetery (Pahiatua)
11.13.3.1	Compliments have been received acknowledging the very good standard that the Mangatainoka Cemetery (Pahiatua) is being maintained.

11.13.4	Earthquake-prone Buildings
11.13.4.1	To date six building owners have responded to letters sent on this matter through providing completed engineering reports and proof of earthquake strengthening within the first month of receiving notification from Council.
11.13.4.2	A media statement is requested be made to explain the earthquake strengthening work being undertaken on Council’s Dannevirke Service Centre Gordon Street administration building.
11.13.5	Libraries
11.13.5.1	It is timely Council is undertaking a conversation with the community regarding the Library Strategy given the changing use of libraries in the district.
11.13.6	Customer Services
11.13.6.1	Council needs to be mindful of rural communities ability to access the Report It webpage to use for service requests and faults when connectivity is impacted by severe weather events.
11.13.7	Eketāhuna District Entry Signage
11.13.7.1	Feedback has been received that the new signage installed in Eketāhuna is difficult to read because of its location.
11.13.7.2	Due to overhead power lines and Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency requirements and suitable sites the options around installation were limited.
11.13.7.3	If viewing the sign becomes challenging a new style of sign will be designed utilising existing infrastructure and use the current sign on the new Te Ahu a Turanga Manawatu Tararua Highway when built.
11.13.7.4	The sign will be left in place until it is ready to be installed on the new highway, and discussions are occurring with Council’s designer about a new style of sign for Eketāhuna.
11.13.8	Emergency Operations Centre
11.13.8.1	Thanks are conveyed to the Council’s Emergency Operations Centre team for their response to managing the Dannevirke water supply issues and weather event that impacted on parts of the district’s rural roading network.
11.13.9	*That the report from the Chief Executive dated 23 March 2022 concerning an update on key projects and items of interest to the Council (as circulated) be received.* Crs Johns/Wards Carried

12. 2022 Local Government New Zealand Conference

12.1	Given this year’s Local Government New Zealand annual conference will be held in Palmerston North (from 20 to 22 July 2022) this enables the opportunity to consider all of the Council’s elected members attending that event.
12.2	Provided the budget is available for that purpose conference registrations for the Mayor and seven Councillors will be made, with Cr Shirley Hull not able to attend.

13. 2022 Local Government New Zealand Annual General Meeting

13.1

That the Council, being a member of Local Government New Zealand, appoint the Mayor - Mrs T H Collis as the presiding delegate to vote on its behalf at the Annual General Meeting of Local Government New Zealand held on the twenty-eighth day of July 2022 and at any adjournment thereof, and

That the Deputy Mayor - Cr E L Peeti-Webber be appointed as the alternative delegate to vote on the Council’s behalf in the absence of the Mayor.

Crs Johns/Wards Carried

14. Portfolio Reports

14.1	Pahiatua Community Events
14.1.1	Cr Shirley Hull acknowledged the successful Pahiatua Saturday Market Days and Diner en Blanc event held in the town centre.
14.1.2	Marsha Shearman is congratulated on organising the Saturday Market Days, with all of the money raised through stall fees and donations given to support community initiatives and charitable organisations.
14.1.3	The Diner en Blanc event was spectacular and enjoyable, and featured the town centre area developed as an attractive environment for such outdoor community occasions.
14.1.4	Cr Hull raised for consideration the possibility of communities in the district arranging events and activities this year to celebrate the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee.

15. Mayoral Matters

15.1	Mayor and Councillors Report
15.1.1	A copy of the Mayor and Councillors March report is tabled, and the information set out in that document is circulated as an attachment to the agenda relating to these minutes.
15.1.2	Matters included in the Mayor and Councillors report are as follows: 2022 Super Consultation - Round Two Water Dannevirke to Herbertville four-wheel drive off-road fundraising community event Managing forestry land use change under the influence of carbon webinar Local Government New Zealand Rural and Provincial Sector online meeting Creative Communities New Zealand funding round Honourable Minister Michael Wood and Member of Parliament Kieran McAnulty tour of the district and Te Ahu a Turanga Manawatu Tararua Highway update Te Maruata conference held online via Zoom attended by Deputy Mayor Cr Erana Peeti-Webber Eketāhuna district signage Huarahi - Tūhono Weber to Wimbledon (Route 52 upgrade) project Mayor’s Taskforce for Jobs Events attended by the Mayor Councillors portfolio reports Akitio and Pongaroa tour by Cr Sharon Wards
15.2	Anzac Day
15.2.1	Arrangements for the Mayor and Councillors attendance at the various Anzac Day community ceremonies throughout the district were determined.

16. Items Not on the Agenda

16.1

Nil

There being no further business the Mayor thanked those present for their attendance and contributions, and declared the meeting closed at 3.37pm.

____________________________

Mayor

Report

Date	:	20 April 2022
To	:	Mayor and Councillors Tararua District Council
From	:	Bryan Nicholson Chief Executive
Subject	:	Staff Report
Item No	:	11.1

1. Recommendation

1.1 That the report from the Chief Executive dated 20 April 2022 concerning an update on key projects and items of interest to the Council (as circulated) be received.

Reason for the Report

This report is to update the Mayor and Councillors on key projects and items of interest over the period 22 March 2022 to 20 April 2022.

Infrastructure Group

General

Staff remain extremely busy responding to the impacts of weather events and COVID-19 on service delivery. Another severe weather event impacted the district during March with heavy rain falling in the Ruahine Ranges, affecting Dannevirke’s water supply, and then around the Pongaroa and coastal areas, affecting many rural roads. Although an emergency was not formally declared, Council’s Emergency Operations Centre was activated to coordinate the response to this event. The effects of COVID-19 continue to increase, with staff and suppliers having to isolate and large delays to the supply of materials impacting project completion timeframes.

Many projects continue, including the various projects funded through Government’s 3-Waters Stimulus Fund. An increasing priority is around Council’s water supply schemes, where an increasing understanding suggests numerous vulnerabilities and opportunities to improve their reliability, performance and resilience.

Recruitment of staff for several key roles continues or will soon be underway. This includes roles across the Infrastructure Group, in transport, 3-waters, facilities and solid waste.

Transport

Operations and Maintenance

Tararua was hit by another significant rain event during March, mostly impacting the eastern area of the district where over 300mm of rain was reported by some locals. Crews were mobilised to respond to slips, dropouts and fallen trees. Inspection of roads effected by the rain were completed once weather settled and identified over 350 weather related faults. The map below indicates faults recorded following Cyclone Dovi (in blue) and the March weather event (in red).

Road maintenance teams continue to clean up slips and complete repairs after March’s rain, while balancing delivery of business-as-usual programmes. Pavement stabilisation patch repairs are being completed on 2022/23 resurfacing sites and at high priority defects on Route 52 south of Pongaroa. Repairs of defects in the carpark outside the Dannevirke Warehouse have recently been completed.

Heavy vegetation cutting continues in the northern half of the district, with the southern half planned for next financial year. Vegetation spraying in towns and villages is also being completed, the third spray round this financial year, and is planned to be completed by the end of April. Spraying of rural roads will then be carried out.

Inspectors and patrolmen travelled 1,724km on our district’s roads capturing and repairing faults during March. The urban road sweeper truck completed 107km. A summary of works completed during March is shown below.

Renewals

Delivery of pavement resurfacing and rehabilitation programmes has been disrupted due to storm events in February and March. The pavement resurfacing programme is approximately 70% complete. Works continue on Nikau Road (pictured right), where pavement rehabilitation and minor safety improvements are being completed with expected completion by the end of May.

Works at two sites on Weber Road are planned to start in early May, which include removal of the unstable seal layers, strengthening of the underlying pavement and improvements to drainage systems. One site on Weber Road, near Dannevirke, has been deferred to next financial year. Holding repairs have been programmed to ensure it remains safe over winter.

Replacement of kerb and channel in Albert Street, Pahiatua, has now been completed. Replacement of footpath and kerb and channel in Totara Place, Pahiatua has now started. Work will soon begin for renewal of the Norsewood War Memorial carpark, which includes improving and strengthening the entranceway along with resealing (waterproofing) the carpark to prolong its life.

Pavement Rehabilitation Programme

Emergency Works

While the initial response is continuing, project teams have shifted focus to the large faults at River Road and Coast Road near Akitio.

Extremely high river flows scoured a section of River Road, causing significant damage and reducing the road to one lane. On Coast Road, a large dropout has formed temporarily closing the road. Initial investigations suggest a large spring caused the surrounding area to become saturated and heavy, resulting in the land slipping below the road. Visits have been competed with geotechnical engineers, Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency, Horizons Regional Council and Council’s local iwi partners with a view to expediting repairs. Works to improve drainage and retreat Coast Road has begun and is expected to be completed by the end of April. The River Road site is much more complex. Works have been completed to improve the safety of the road while further investigation and planning of the permanent repair progresses.

Dropout at River Road Dropout at Coast Road

Repairs underway at Coast Road

3-Waters

Reticulation Operation and Maintenance

An urgent repair to Woodville’s raw water main was completed during March, following a large leak and split in the pipe being identified. A fire hydrant was replaced in Dannevirke, near the Laws Road / State Highway 2 intersection. Crews have also responded to several water leaks in Pahiatua, caused by contractors installing fibre optic cable.

The Eketahuna wastewater pump station has had the two sets of pump guide rails renewed. A new pump has been installed in the Maire Street pump station in Pahiatua, the original pump is currently being assessed to determine whether it can be repaired. A new pump has also been installed at Southern Haulage in Ormondville with the old one burning out.

An upgrade of the stormwater pump station in Alexandra Street, Dannevirke, is planned to be completed in April.

Reticulation Renewal

The sewer main renewal project in Barraud Street, Dannevirke, continues. This renewal includes the replacement of 240 metres of 300mm diameter pipe, between Trafalgar Street and New Street, including 3 manholes.

Disruption to supply chains are impacting project timeframes. Recently, simple products such as ready-mix concrete has been a challenge to source. Delays to the supply of concrete liners has delayed the installation of the flow meter and chamber at Dannevirke’s treated water reservoir. The liners were ordered at the start of February with an initial expected delivery date of 19 April; however this has now been pushed out to May.

Barraud Street manhole replacement before (left) and after (centre) and new pipe installation (right)

Water Supply and Demand Management

Water restriction levels have remained unchanged over recent weeks; however it is expected some of these will be reduced following Anzac Day.

Dannevirke’s water supply remains the most vulnerable, largely due to the leaking impounded supply. This has not been set up to supply all of Dannevirke’s water use when less than 8 metres full, and the submersible pumps are only capable of supplying around 12 litres per second against town demand of around 70 litres per second. This means the water treatment plant is reliant on water direct from the Tamaki River, which was severely impacted by March’s heavy rain event and triggered a boil water notice. Most of the water expected to be leaking from the impounded supply is now being recaptured and is pumped either back into the impounded supply or directly into the water treatment plant. This is a temporary solution until the remaining leak is identified and repaired. Additional submersible drone inspections are expected to be completed in the coming weeks. Two temporary pumps have also been installed at the impounded supply, to increase the volume of water able to be taken – reducing the reliance on the Tamaki River (especially when it becomes turbid in high flows). A permanent solution to support taking up to 75 litres per second from the impounded supply is being investigated.

Investigation and planning work for remediation of the Pahiatua weir, located in the Mangatainoka River, continues. Staff will submit a plan for remediation of the weir and the damaged embankments to Horizons Regional Council by the end of April, as required by the abatement notice issued in November 2021. The future of the weir is a difficult balance between sustaining Pahiatua’s water supply and meeting environmental requirements.

Eketahuna’s water supply continues to be impacted by high turbidity levels in the Makakahi River, triggering precautionary boil water notices. The upgrade to the water treatment plant is underway and includes added filtration and raw water storage which, once complete, will reduce the likelihood of future boil water notices. Staff have recently investigated the Makakahi River and identified activities that are expected to be increasing the level of silt flowing into the river, especially during rain. Horizons Regional Council are also assessing this. Due to the delays with the water treatment plant upgrade and these activities identified along the river, staff are looking into establishing a tank for temporary water supply during boil water notices likely to occur over the coming months.

Pahiatua Wastewater Treatment Plant Pond Desludging

Desludging one of the ponds at the Pahiatua wastewater treatment plant is underway. This work was actioned under urgency following the sludge survey completed in 2021, that indicated sludge levels far greater than is appropriate. Removal of the accumulated solids is required in order to improve treatment plant performance and reduce odour issues.

To complete this, a dredge pumped sludge from the pond through flexible pipes into geotextile bags located in a containment area nearby sludge dewatering and containment area. This has been built especially for the desludging work, and allows the geotextile bags to hold the solids but dewater, or release liquid, which is pumped back into the treatment ponds. Once dewatered enough, likely over 12-24 months, the bags will be disposed of.

Pahiatua wastewater treatment plant pond desludging dredge (left) and geotextile bags (right)

Facilities

Parks & Reserves

The grass growth rates have increased during March with favourable growing conditions experienced, mowing was adjusted accordingly. Additional weed eating at Woodville Gorge Cemetery, Woodville Recreational Grounds, Main Street, Rotary Park, Victory Park, Cultural Centre, Mangatainoka Cemetery, around the Eketahuna township has been done.

Increase in tree work including cutting, pruning and removal of down branches across the district largely due to the storm’s experiences in March.

Facilities has been coordinating and ensuring cemeteries, parks and reserves are presentable ahead of Anzac Day commemorations. Staff have noticed an increase in resource required from Council, as various volunteer groups are unable to physically perform the work anymore. Contractors happily stepped up to cover the gaps and ensure all is ready for Anzac Day.

There was ongoing vandalism in the way of broken windows at the Carnegie Building as well as graffiti in Dannevirke Barraud Street Toilets, Dannevirke Railway Underpass, Dannevirke Upper Domain Toilets, Dannevirke High Street Exeloos, Norsewood Waterwheel Park, Woodville Band Rotunda, Harvard Park and motorised bikes in Dannevirke Coronation Park.

Playgrounds

Monthly playground checks were completed with no new issues reported.

Level 3 Playground Inspections on 13 Council Playgrounds are to be completed in April by Playsafe (Playground Safety Specialists). The outcome from the report will assist in works forward planning and ensure playgrounds are safe and fit for purpose.

1. Ormondville Playground

2. Norsewood Waterwheel Park

3. Baines Domain Playground

4. Upper Domain Playground

5. Dannevirke Camping Ground Playground

6. Coronation Park Play Fort

7. Fountaine Square Playground

8. Ballance Playground

9. Carnival Park Camping Ground Playground

10. Harvard Park Adventure Playground

11. Eketahuna Playground

12. Pongaroa Community Hall Playground

13. Playground Route 52

Cemeteries

All families have been contacted and provided an update regarding the Mangatainoka Cemetery columbarium wall collapse. The plaque proofs have arrived and will be emailed through to the families to sign off/approve. The plaques are due to arrive from Italy next week and once staff have the approvals, we can start the process of getting them engraved. The foundation work has been completed and the manufacturing of the steelwork has started. Contractors are being delayed with staff shortages due to Covid-19.

A new ashes berm is in the process of being installed at the Mangatainoka Cemetery. This will provide approximately 90 ashes plots.

Pensioner Housing

The concrete access path leading from Aften Court complex out to the Anglican Church onto High Street has been renewed. Tenants use this path as a short-cut to High Street, also to access the services of Eske Centre & Lavender Blue. The concrete path had cracked becoming a trip hazard.

Before After

Aften Court – Flat 11 has recently had a freshen up with new paint and flooring once it was vacated by the previous tenant who had been in the flat since 2012.

Before After

Pahiatua Lyndon Flats (Kowhai Place) 1-6 will start to have new windows installed in May. The current aluminium sliding windows rattle badly especially when we get high winds with tenants complaining how difficult it can be to sleep with the noise the current windows make.

Annual flat inspections were completed in March 2022. Each flat is visited and both cosmetic and structural assessments are done, to allow for informed decision-making for future works that maybe required.

Current waiting list for pensioner housing where the applicant meets criteria:

Dannevirke	13
Woodville	3
Pahiatua	7
Eketahuna	1

Swimming Pools

Staff met with Pahiatua Baths Committee on 8 March and received request for additional funding of $10,000 bringing the management fee to $35,000 per year. To provide consistency if all three outdoor season pools were increased by $10,000 this would increase the management fees for 22/23 FY by $30,000. This information was presented at the March Works Liaison Committee.

While on site at Pahiatua Pool, the Committee pointed out two leaks in the pump room. These leaks have been scheduled for repair in May by Taylors Pools and Spas as local plumbers were not interested.

The Woodville Swimming Pool changing room roof has been replaced as planned in the Long Term Plan.

Campgrounds

Woodville Campground had one incident involving a non-visitor conning a new librarian into giving them the keys to the Campground amenities. Through investigation it was found that the individual was staying at Ferry Reserve, however, was not on site in multiple attempts to locate them. The keys have still not been returned. A police report was filed.

Public Conveniences

Mangatainoka Reserve toilets were scheduled to be installed in March, however due to unforeseen circumstances this was delayed to April. A Bush Telegraph article has been released to update the public.

Solid Waste

The ‘Request for Proposal’ has now closed for Council’s main Refuse and Recycling Contract. Tender evaluations are currently under way, with the successful respondent being notified at the end of this month. This contract is due to commence from 1 October 2022.

Tararua Alliance

Customer Management

Performance Dashboard

Operations Group

Regulatory

Building Services

Building Consents

From 1 July 2021 a total of 1049 inspections were requested, with 1390 performed.

Table – Applications for Dwellings by Location

Location (Valuation Area)	Total 2017/18	Total 2018/19	Total 2019/20	Total 2020/21	From 1 July 2021
Dannevirke	18	24	27	43	16
Rural	12	16	15	25	12
Urban	6	8	12	18	4
Woodville	12	7	13	12	4
Rural	4	4	4	6	2
Urban	8	3	9	6	2
Pahiatua	13	8	23	31	11
Rural	11	3	10	16	3
Urban	2	5	13	15	8
Eketahuna	3	5	1	13	1
Rural	3	2	0	7	0
Urban	0	3	1	6	1
TOTAL	46	44	64	99	32

Table – Building Consent and Inspection Statistics

Category	Total 2018/19	Total 2019/20	Total 2020/21	From 1 July 2021
No. of Applications Received	393	401	479	255
No. of Applications Processed	381	377	465	230
% Processed within Time	86.6%	92.3%	73.5%	70.08%
Total Value	15.8M	$27.8M	$38.7M	$30.9M
No. of Inspections Requested	978	1,137	1,608	1049
No. of Inspections Performed	1,375	1,715	2,104	1390

Table - Building Packet and Lim Requests

Total

2019

Total

2020

Total

2021

From 1 July

2021

Building Packets

131

207

343

280

Lims

172

145

156

131

Staffing

Building consent processing and inspections continue to be provided by Solutions Team. They are working alongside Council’s administrators and cadets to ensure continuity of service to the community. Council is currently advertising the Team Leader Building and Building Officer roles. All administration positions have been filled.

Earthquake-Prone Buildings (EPB)

Letters have been sent to owners of priority EPBs. Staff are now in the process of identifying all other EPBs in the district. To date, 6 building owners have responded with engineering reports completed and proof of earthquake strengthening within the first month of notification.

Animal Control

Annual Dog Re-registration

Out of a total of 6,582 (known) dogs in the Tararua District, 6,503 are currently registered. This means 79 dogs are not registered (1.2%).

At this point of the registration year, all dogs should now be registered. Infringements have been issued to dog owners that have still not registered their dogs.

This month, Animal Control Officers visited South School in Dannevirke, to provide education to school children about dog safety.

Dog Attacks

Table – Reported Dog Attacks by Type and Location from 1 July 2021

Location	Dogs	Poultry	Stock	Cat	People	Total
Ind/Com Nth Ward
Ind/Com Sth Ward
Non-Rateable	2				2	4
Rural North Ward		1	2	1	2	6
Rural South Ward	5	1		1	0	7
Road or No Property Address
Urban North Ward	1	1	1	1	6	10
Urban South Ward	1	1		1	4	7
TOTAL	9	4	3	4	14	34

Environmental Health and Licensing

There were four verifications completed on food premises this month. Council’s Environmental Health Officer also made 3 educational visits to businesses, explaining requirements for compliance.

Alcohol Licences

No licensing applications have required a public hearing.

The following alcohol licensing applications have been received to date:

Table – Alcohol Licensing Applications to date:

Category	2019/20	2020/21	From 1 July 2021
New Manager Cert	21	21	19
Renewal of Manager Cert	32	57	24
Special Licences	54	56	28
Temporary Authority	5	5	1
On/Off/Club New applications	5	2	2
On/Off/Club Renewal applications	20	26	14
Total Applications	137	167	88

There have been no appeals to the Alcohol Regulatory Licensing Authority.

Illicit Dumping

Table – Reported Illicit Dumping by Location

Location	Total 2019/20	Total 2020/21	From 1 July 2021
Ind/Com Nth Ward	16	11	26
Ind/Com Sth Ward	9	2	5
Non-Rateable	6	20	3
Rural North Ward	5	3	9

Rural South Ward	2	1	7
Road or No Property Address	105	74	7
Urban North Ward	6	7	5
Urban South Ward	3	5	6
TOTAL	152	123	68

Other Complaints

A total of 34 noise complaints have been received since the last report. There were 2 abandoned vehicles reported over this period.

District Planning

Resource Consents

Table – Applications for Subdivision by Location

Location (Valuation Area)	Total 2017/18	Total 2018/19	Total 2019/20	Total 2020/21	From 1 July 2021
Dannevirke	22	18	44	48	57
Rural	19	16	34	37	40
Urban	3	2	10	11	17
Woodville	7	9	13	25	22
Rural	4	2	6	15	14
Urban	3	7	7	10	8
Pahiatua	13	15	22	35	21
Rural	10	10	13	26	18
Urban	3	5	9	9	3
Eketahuna	5	6	7	13	11
Rural	4	6	7	11	8
Urban	1	0	1	2	3
TOTAL	47	48	86	121	111

Table – Resource Consent Statistics

Category	Total 2018/19	Total 2019/20	Total 2020/21	From 1 July 2021
No. of Applications Received	72	101	135	133
Subdivision	49	85	121	111
Land Use	23	16	14	22
No. of Applications Processed	73	91	112	125
Subdivision	52	73	104	86
Land Use	21	18	8	26
% Processed within Time	98.6%	93.4%	91.1%	98.5%

Programmes and Projects Office

Project Updates

Aften Court Pensioner Units

Purpose: To increase the supply of pensioner units in Dannevirke by six. Improve Aften Court operating efficiencies. Decrease the housing shortage for pensioner units, and boost employment as part of local Covid-19 recovery Plan.

Overall Status: External painting completed, plumbing and electrical works complete. windows are in, brick work is complete. Final internal finishing in action.

Time Status: Despite material shortages and delays, expected completion date is May 2022.

Risk Status: Minimal risk to project completion.

Next Steps: Final physical works. Building inspection. Project closure. Conduct formal handover of asset to Council. Tenancy.

Dannevirke Dog Pound – General Upgrades

Purpose: To improve the quality of flooring, ventilation, water supply and security to meet MPI and SPCA requirements. To ensure a safe and healthy environment for staff and public.

Overall Status: Floor improvements are complete, plumbing complete, ventilation procurement complete and in delivery stage. Security is in planning stage.

Time Status: Timeline for full project completion is June 2022.

Risk Status: Minimal risk to project completion.

Next Steps: Ventilation work complete. Procurement process for security complete and stage in action.

Dannevirke Water Treatment Plant Upgrade

Purpose: To upgrade the Water Treatment Plant in order to meet the National Drinking Water Standard of New Zealand. To ensure a high standard of service for the public.

Overall Status: The overall programme consists of upgrades to 3 Water Treatment Plants. Civil works, the upgrade design and pre-commissioning has now been completed. Commissioning and hand-over is currently underway.

Time Status: Major physical works completed November 2021 – final sign off outstanding.

Risk Status: Minimal risk at this stage of the project.

Next Steps: Complete commissioning / project closure.

Woodville Water Treatment Plant Upgrade

Purpose: To upgrade the Water Treatment Plant in order to meet the National Drinking Water Standard of New Zealand. To ensure a high standard of service for the public.

Overall Status: The overall programme consists of upgrades to 3 Water Treatment Plants. Civil works officially began at Woodville on 9 August 2021 and had been completed by 14 October 2021. The installation of the upgraded equipment had been completed by 22 December 2021.

Time Status: Project in commissioning stage. Minimal risk to project completion and final handover.

Risk Status: Minimal risk at this stage of the project.

Next Steps: Conduct commissioning, complete project closure.

Eketahuna Water Treatment Plant Upgrade

Purpose: To upgrade the Water Treatment Plant in order to meet the National Drinking Water Standard of New Zealand. To ensure a high standard of service for the public.

Overall Status: The overall programme consists of upgrades to 3 Water Treatment Plants. A design option has been selected and endorsed by the Principles Group.

Time Status: Project to be completed no later than 10 June to meet funding parameters. Project team is working within this timeframe.

Risk Status: Delays to Dannevirke and Woodville WTP’s due to Covid-19 negatively impacted the timeline of Eketahuna WTP upgrade.

Next Steps: Foundation work has commenced.

Dannevirke Service Centre Earthquake Strengthening

Purpose: To improve the seismic strength rating of the Dannevirke Service Centre building to meet the National Building Standard of 67%. To ensure a safe environment for staff and the public.

Overall Status: The building consent has been granted and staff relocation has occurred. Customer services have moved to the Business Network building. Civil works are in progress.

Time Status: Project to be completed July 2022.

Risk Status: Potentially supply chain challenges (all ordered). Covid-19 ramifications.

Next Steps: Civil works began 31 January. Civil works to continue until completion.

Pahiatua Service Centre Earthquake Strengthening

Purpose: To improve the seismic strength rating of the Pahiatua Service Centre building to 67% of the National Building Standards. To ensure a safe environment for staff and the public.

Overall Status: The building consent has been granted and staff relocation has occurred. Customer services currently based within the Pahiatua Library.

Time Status: Project to be completed May 2022.

Risk Status: Potentially supply chain challenges (all ordered). Covid-19 ramifications.

Next Steps: Civil works began 31 January. Continuation of civil works until completion.

Libraries Tararua

March was membership month with new members going into the draw for a Prezzy card. This was won by Christine Sargison from Dannevirke. Christine commented that she had never won anything in her life before.

Our membership promotion reached 48 people in total.

New Zealand Libraries Partnership Programme (NZLPP)

A new programme will be launched in April at Dannevirke Library. This is a project our ‘Focus on Reading’ secondee has been working on. Called ‘Chapter chat’, it’s a relaxed book group meeting where attendees share what they are currently reading and why they are enjoying it.

The addition of another desk screen at Woodville Library was made possible with the last funding round from the NZLPP. The final project from this funding is to make the returns drop-boxes at Dannevirke, Pahiatua, and Eketāhuna Libraries identifiable and lockable.

New Appointment

Peggy McConnell has commenced her training this month and will be dual trained to cover libraries and customer services. She comes to us with varied library experience.

Programmes

Staff are slowly re-introducing the normal series of programmes in each branch. At the Red setting of the Covid Protection Framework there are few constraints for public facilities. Our capacity limits – based on 1m distancing – are well within the number attending programmes and visiting the library at any one time. Everyone who visits wears a mask, which doesn’t interfere with programmes generally. As people feel more comfortable to come out in public, attendance at programmes increases.

A request for funding has been made to the Eastern and Central Community Trust for both the Children’s Reading Programmes. Staff are hopeful the Trust will continue to fund the work in supporting improved literacy levels among the communities tamariki.

Little Ears is still in recess with the intention that it resumes in Term 2 when branches are fully staffed.

Skinny Jump – the low-cost provision of internet to folk who meet the criteria – has been quite popular in March with 6 people signed up.

Branch news

Dannevirke Library hosted the Volunteer Central group. Six people came along and signed up during their workshop about volunteering in your community.

Pahiatua has introduced a “Recent returns” area. People like to see what others have read and this acts as a ‘recommended by’ space as well.

Eketāhuna has a wonderful display for Anzac Day with red and blue poppies providing a welcome to patrons. The book group met in the first week for the second time.

Woodville Library have hosted their Yak’n’Yarn group this month. After a slow start in February, there were nine in attendance.

The Outreach Librarian made a delivery to Waireka Rest Home in Pahiatua. The adult book exchange between Eketāhuna and Pahiatua Libraries is now occurring monthly to coincide with the new roster that begins in May. There will be a team member working a half day in Eketāhuna once a week allowing visits to schools and playgroups as well as the exchange.

Planning for Next Month

School holidays start after Easter this year, with the library providing the Digital Literacy themed holiday programme. This year, due to Omicron’s impact, staff have chosen to make chrome books available for the children to download gaming apps or access gaming websites to play against others. This will be supervised.

Planning for the Library Annual Satisfaction Survey and the Super Consultation on the Library Strategy are well underway. The Annual Satisfaction Survey will be sent out to over 2000 email addresses for members to take part. It will also be available in hardcopy and through a QR code, on the website. There is additional information and a short survey available for the Library Strategy consultation. Now is the perfect time for staff to understand what the community needs from us in the way of Library services in the future. As staff bring back programmes, we hope to be guided by the community on what needs to start, to stop, and to continue.

The promotion for next month is ‘Meet the Team’. Planning is well underway to have team profiles in each of the branches with a recommended item to look for in the library collection.

May sees the National Simultaneous Story event take place. For the past 2 years, this has been virtual. Dependent on traffic light settings, this may take place in Libraries.

Statistics as at 31 March 2022

Traditionally, the statistics reported to Council have been raw data with no analysis done on the figures and no trends reported.

This month, two new graphs are included that show the trends in library usage based on the raw data.

The first graph shows the average number of items per active borrower. August coincides with lockdown so is based on just 2 weeks of opening hours. Potentially, the slight increase in figures for the first 3 months of this year relate to borrowers visiting less frequently but taking out more items when they do.

This second graph shows the percentage of pedestrians who are active borrowers. This shows that while at Alert Level 2, most of the visitors were using the lending service. This is consistent with no programmes running and people coming in to access the internet on their own device or for photocopying services. In Woodville and Eketāhuna branches, staff know that approx. 15% of visitors use Council Services. There was a rise in January/February as people prepared for the impact of Omicron. The trend is returning to normal as staff have re-introduced other services such as photocopying, use of chrome books, and some programmes. Eketāhuna figure is consistent with no programmes running at present. This is expected to change as staff resume normal programming.

Customer Services

Statistics

Phone Statistics
March 2022	March 2021

Method CRMs received – March 2022

Method CRMs received - March 2021

Phone – 596

Email (includes apps, internet) – 101

In person/at counter – 30

Internal – 7

Other - 1

Phone – 564

Email (includes apps, internet) – 45

In person/at counter – 38

Internal – 9

Other – (2 deleted as double ups)

Once again calls were down but CRMs slightly up. Sending requests via email/apps/internet has increased. Community still very active in reporting water leaks.

Total CRMs entered March 2022 - 735

Total CRMs entered March 2021 - 654

Top 5 categories:

Water Leak – 63

Noise Bass/Stereo/Radio/Tv (1st call) – 45

Building Pack requests – 42

Noise Bass/Stereo/Radio/Tv (2^nd call) – 36

Rural Slips - 32

Top 5 categories:

Noise Bass/Stereo/Radio/Tv (2^nd call) – 44

Building Pack requests – 42

Noise Bass/Stereo/Radio/Tv (1st call) – 37

Water Toby Leak/Repair – 31

Water Leak - 28

Summary

Dannevirke Boil Water Notice resulted in nearly a dozen calls regarding water quality clarity as well as a few calls from people saying they didn’t know it was in place. These were directed to the appropriate areas.

Customer Services Team are stretched and having to work solo at times due to isolation requirements.

Palmerston North City Council Afterhours have also been answering Council’s phones at different times to ease pressure on the team. However, they too are feeling the effects of having staff away plus getting urgent calls from the other district and regional councils they look after, to answer their calls due to staff away. Calls may take longer than usual to answer.

Economic Development

Naenae Road

Council is considering its position on paper roads and seeking legal Council advice.

TUI/Cider Discussions

Initial discussion held with Craig Nash (Accelerate 25) and Nick Rodgers (Tui Brewery) regarding the potential to develop a cider industry in the Tararua District.

Mayor’s Taskforce for Jobs (MTFJ)

MTFJ has now supported 57 NEETs (not in training, education or employment) into full time work. We are working on exceeding 70 NEETs supported in this financial year. The careers kiosks have now been rolled out into through high schools and Woodville library. The community has been very supportive of the 12-months initiative.

Te Apiti

Through Colin’s attendance at Te Apiti meetings conversations continue with Horizons Regional Council around Ferry Reserve. Viewing structures are being assessed by the building team and the facilities team are looking into assisting Horizons with securing a contractor for works that will be paid for through Te Apiti funds.

HR Event

An HR event has been launched for business owners entitled “Ask Any Question”. Taking place online on 3 May, employers are being invited to attend and share their burning question pre-event. The session will be delivered by Robyn Young HR and may become a catalyst for the delivery of a future HR service in the district.

Tararua Business Network

Discussions are ongoing with a businessperson in Woodville to join the steering group to investigate the establishment of a Tararua Business Network organisation in the district.

District Signage

Conversations have commenced with Waka Kotahi on the placement of a district entry sign on the new highway. Specs are being provided to them with location of the sign still to be discussed.

Toilets at Mangatainoka

These are in the process of being installed from mid-April with Nick at Tui Brewery being kept informed of developments.

Community Development

Department of Internal Affairs (DIA)

· Working with DIA Manawatu and Hawke’s Bay on new funding clinics. Staff are also in discussion around outcomes of recent funding rounds.

· Update on discussions around Pahiatua Community Garden lease. Facilities are in discussion with Explore Pahiatua around a lease arrangement for the gardens.

· Mark discussed applying for Sport Manawatu Tu Manawa funding with the Cactus programmes in both Dannevirke and Pahiatua.

School Request

Have received a request for support from a local school regarding assisting with identifying funding opportunities and providing advice on how best to maximise any opportunities. Staff will be meeting with the school principal to learn more and consider how support (if provided) might be applied to other schools in the district if there is a similar need.

Communications

General Business

The communications team has been hit (and is still affected) by staff testing positive with COVID-19 and being very unwell with it. Despite this, staff have strived to meet deadlines when they should have been resting and they are to be commended for their commitment.

Bush Telegraph Work

· Compilation of articles, writing articles, liaison with staff members and graphic design of Council’s regular Bush Telegraph page.

· Design and content creation for a full-page Bush Telegraph advert about the 2022 Super Consultation, including super consultation submission form and summary of consultation topics.

· Design of a full-page ANZAC Day advert for the Bush Telegraph and collaboration with Carole Wilton and RSA to gather information on all the different services throughout the district.

Facebook

Putting up numerous Facebook posts, responding to comments and private messages, including advancing 4 requests for a CRM onto customer services.

Website

Continuous update of website information.

Writing Project Updates:

· Article: Dannevirke Water Treatment Plant upgrade completed, Woodville underway, Eketāhuna next.

· Article: Dannevirke pensioner flats progressing steadily.

· Article: Mayors Taskforce for Jobs. Inzone Careers Kiosks coming soon to secondary schools and district libraries.

Other Articles:

· Article: Customer services update about how COVID-19 is affecting Council’s customer services, office hours and waiting times.

· Article: Customer services update on handy website feature which can help people to find information on boil water notices, the status of roads, how to report things and more.

· Article: Tararua District Council COVID-19 Protection update COVID-19.

· Article: What happened to the pipeline along the railway track in Dannevirke?

· Article: Fixing water leaks: teamwork between the community and Council.

Others:

· Organising a letterbox drop in Pahiatua for the Super Consultation Expo Event

· Eketāhuna Precautionary Boil Water Notice

· Liaison with the media (Dave Murdoch – Bush Telegraph) about the rates hike and Eketahuna Precautionary Boil Water Notice (George Shiers – Wairarapa Times Age)

· Taking, editing and resizing staff photos

Other Communications Work:

· Issuing Precautionary Boil Water Notices for Eketāhuna

· Issuing a Mandatory Boil Water Notice for Dannevirke

· Putting out communications to conserve water in Eketāhuna

· Responding to CRMs regarding Dannevirke Mandatory Boil Water Notice

· Bush Telegraph articles on water

· Annual Plan (rates) article in the Bush Telegraph

· Lifting Water Boil Notices for Eketāhuna and Dannevirke

· Writing: Looking after our spaces and places

· Continuing liaison with Council teams to update the logo on Council documents and facilities

· Assisting other departments to change or adapt Council forms

· Distribution of Round 2 Super Consultation documents to customer services, i-Site, libraries and local businesses in Norsewood and Pongaroa

· Communications in support of the Emergency Operations Centre activation

25 March to 1 April 2022

· Participation in the Emergency Operations Centre debrief on 5 April

Projects

Water Treatment Plants

Communications team is continuing to support the projects team with updates on this project. The scheduled update for 28 March 2022 was overtaken by the activation of the Emergency Operations Centre. Next update will be by 20 April.

Local Government Elections 2022

Collaboration with neighbouring councils is ongoing regarding a common theme for the upcoming local elections. This has been proceeding well.

Super Consultation Round 2

Round 2 of the Super Consultation commenced 1 April 2022. The second round of Super Consultation will take place from 1 – 30 April 2022 with a submission cut-off date of 6 May 2022.

Key topics during this round are:

· District Strategy

· Annual Plan 2022 - 2023

· Housing Strategy

· Dog Control Policy and Bylaw

· Gambling Venue Policy

· Library Strategy

· Water Supply Bylaw

Venues

· Wednesday 6 April, 9am to 12pm Pahiatua Bush Multisport Park

· Monday 11 April, 1pm to 4pm Woodville Sports Stadium

· Tuesday 12 April, 1pm to 4pm Eketāhuna Community Centre

· Thursday 14 April, 1pm to 4pm Norsewood War Memorial Hall

· Tuesday 19 April, 1pm to 4pm Dannevirke Christian Fellowship Hub

· Thursday 28 April, 1pm to 4pm Pongaroa War Memorial Hall

Huarahi Tūhono – Weber to Wimbledon (Route 52 Upgrade)

A community information evening was held on Friday 18 March 2022 at the Wimbeldon Tavern to provide an update on Huarahi Tūhono. Communications team, the Mayor, some Councillors and Tararua Alliance representatives were in attendance. About 20 local residents attended the event.

Tararua i-SITE Visitor Information Centre

Welcome Packs

There were 38 packs sent out with 14 being sent to purchasers outside the Tararua District.

Creative Communities NZ - Local Grant Scheme

There were 11 applications received totalling $29,782. The total amount available to allocate is $21,742.

Manawatu Gorge Railcar Shuttles

Tickets are now on sale for the trip on 7 May 2022, these are selling very well.

Article in MotorCaravaner Magazine (NZMCA)

An article regarding the new NZMCA camp also featured some information on visiting the Tararua District.

Tararua i-SITE and Information Centre Statistics for March 2022

Note: The Tararua i-SITE closed earlier most days between 13 March and 2 April due to staff shortages.

A resignation has been received from Shanise Rankin – casual i-SITE Assistant.

DigitalSpaces – Tararua Digital Hub

March Monthly Report

It has been a mixed month for March for DigitalSpaces, with still not being at the peak of Covid-19 cases the use of the DigitalSpaces has generally been low. There are signs of increase for April with the vaccine passes removal and exciting new projects to get involved with such as video creation for the new career kiosks.

After reaching out to the museums and art galleries within the district to promote the Air B&B online experience a couple of the businesses have been interested in the new ways of tourism until overseas tourists come back into New Zealand.

When meeting the new CEDA Business Growth Advisor Matthew Jeanes, they have advised us of a few clients of theirs in the district that are needing help with their business growth. They have passed on their contact details and DigitalSpaces will get in touch with helping their business grow digitally.

April’s training session will be on Excel called “Excel - the latest features.” Supplied by custom spreadsheet solutions.

The quarterly report that is to be provided to the Provincial Growth Fund (PGF) is currently being worked on and will be supplied to the PGF in April.

The next milestone is not due until December 2022 (24-months review).

Civil Defence Emergency Management

Emergency Operations Centre (EOC) Activation

On March 25 Council’s Emergency Operations Centre was activated due to heavy rainfall in the Dannevirke area, especially in the Ruahine Ranges, causing the Tamaki River to be in high (flood) flows with very high turbidity levels, placing significant pressure on the Dannevirke Water Treatment Plant which was not able to treat the turbid water to the NZ Drinking Water Standards requirements causing Dannevirke to be put on a mandatory boil notice.

· Mission - Coordinate the response to Dannevirke’s drinking water issues caused by the significant rainfall event.

· Intent - Provide potable water to the vulnerable community as a priority, and support others in sourcing water, and to ensure transparent communication with the community

Iwi, community groups, volunteers, elected members and staff were involved distributing mandatory boil notices to letterboxes on the Dannevirke water reticulation network. A milk tanker from Fonterra was sourced which provided residents a source to fill up containers with clean drinking water; and filled water bottles were purchased for distribution to those that were unable to get to the tanker to fill their own containers. EOC was stood down after the boil water notices were lifted on 1 April.

As well as staff, Iwi were also involved in the EOC, which proved a valuable resource in the delivery of drinking water and providing welfare within the community. Thank you to all the staff, iwi and volunteers for their time and involvement in this event.

Strategy and Climate Change

Funding Received from Eastern and Central Community Trust (ECCT)

The payment from ECCT towards the Pahiatua Town Centre upgrade performance deck and Māori design elements was gratefully received on 29 March 2022. Costs were lower than budgeted due to an alternative to anodised aluminium strips being substituted for a lower cost option, saving over $77,000. This saving was passed on to ECCT in the final claim of $111,798 rather than $186,000. It will be appropriate to recognise ECCT’s significant contribution in any commemorating plaque or similar way of contributors to the upgrade.

People and Capability Group

Human Resource Management

Staff Movements from 18 March 2022 to 19 April 2022

Recent Appointments:

Role	Contract Type	Effective Date
Solid Waste Manager	Permanent	2 May 2022

Resignations:

Role	Effective Date
Casual i-Site Assistant	11 April 2022
Junior Project Manager	5 May 2022
Solid Waste Officer	13 May 2022

Current Vacancies:

Role	Recruitment Stage
Team Leader Building Services	Long term advertisement
Building Officer	Long term advertisement
Planning Officer	Long term advertisement – interview stage
Procurement Officer	Interview stage
Health and Safety Advisor	Interview stage
Animal Control Officer	Interview stage
Facilities Operations and Contracts Manager	Readvertised
PA to the Mayor	Advertised
Financial and Management Accountant	To be readvertised
Economic and Community Development Advisor	No suitable applicants
Internal Communications Officer	No suitable applicants

Other Staff Matters

TDC Vaccination Policy has been retired effective from 5 April 2022.

Ministry of Social Development (MSD)

Council has been working with MSD in the employment of four fixed term workers with the Tararua Alliance, who will be starting 26 April 2022. This programme provides benefit to the individuals participating, in growing their knowledge, skills and experience as well as providing great benefit to the district’s communities in the work they are completing. This programme runs for 12 weeks, fully funded through MSD.

Information Services

Shane Beverley has now started as the new Information Services (IS) Manager. The IS team offers a wide range of services including keeping the computer and software system running securely, managing, and visualising the data Council hold, managing the GIS system and LIMs, business analysis, and providing IS training and support.

The impacts of COVID-19, a recent IS restructure, long delays in shipment of replacement equipment and a growth in staff numbers has left us with tight constraints resources, and equipment availability. As a result, several IS initiatives have been put on hold. The goal from here is to work towards putting together a strategy for getting initiatives back on track.

A few of the initiatives staff are working on with others are:

· A system security review

· Development of a Data and Information Management Policy

· Reviewing staff induction and training practices

· Council Chamber audio/visual upgrade

· The TRIM (document management system) upgrade

· Reviewing how to most effectively use communication tools; namely Teams, Sharepoint, and Office365 within the Council

When doing this, staff also want to consolidate systems and security, simplify system use, and focus on the importance of managing data and information as strategic assets of the Council.

A selection of other work completed recently by Information Services is listed below.

Training

Since January there have been 14 new staff and 58 training sessions.

Geographical Information Systems (GIS)

Work was carried out with GNS Science in their investigation into the Makuri-Waewaepa fault off Weber Road.

Drone data collection to support the work on ‘Huarahi Tūhono – Weber to Wimbledon’ Route 52 road.

Emergency work was completed to reinstate the Road Status page following an unnotified SQL change by Council’s data providers.

District Plan scoping maps were developed.

Planning was done around the use of a submersible drone into the Dannevirke Impounded Water Supply Reservoir.

Update of IntraMaps system with new layers, patches, and users.

LIMs in March

IT Support for March

New service requests in March: 267
Completed service requests in March: 265

Attachments

1 ⇩. Sport Manawatu Quarterly Partnership Report

7.1	Water Supply (Item 7.3)
7.1.1	The mandatory boil water notice for the Dannevirke water supply was lifted on 1 April 2022 after three consecutive days of compliant water quality tests were conducted (all of which met New Zealand drinking water standard compliance).
7.1.2	The drinking water tanker located on the corner of Allardice and Denmark Streets (in the carpark) will be moved in due course, and a total outdoor ban on water use continues to apply.
7.2	Cole Street Community Walkway (Item 7.2)
7.2.1	Following a meeting to discuss the Cole Street community walkway it has been determined this project cannot proceed due to the risk of ground disturbance impacting on the water supply pipes (that are in poor condition and only have five to ten years estimated life remaining).
7.2.2	As a result of that situation alternative options for the community walkway were considered, and it has been proposed this project now be undertaken on a section of Victoria Avenue.
7.2.3	To progress planning for this project to enable it to proceed as soon as practicable Tararua Alliance is carrying out an engineering site assessment, and confirming third party services locations and any consenting requirements.
7.2.4	Consultation/communication with landowners in the vicinity and the wider community is also being considered as to how this should be done.

8.1	*That the minutes of the Council meeting held on 30 March 2022 (as tabled) be received.* *Spooner-Taylor/Macdonald Carried*
8.2	Super Consultation Round 2
8.2.1	A copy of the Super Consultation Round 2 document is circulated to board members, and consideration may be given at next month’s meeting regarding any submissions or feedback from the Board in respect of the following matters: Annual Plan 2022/2023 District Strategy Housing Strategy Library Strategy Water Supply Bylaw Dog Control Policy and Bylaw Gambling and Venues Policy
8.2.2	Board members can discuss these topics with representatives of Council at the Super Consultation Expo held on 19 April 2022 in the Dannevirke Christian Fellowship Hub from 1.00 to 4.00pm.
8.2.3	Deputy Chairperson Board Member Terry Hynes requested his concern be noted regarding the proposed 11.37% rates increase, and the impact this will have on people with low and fixed incomes and pensioners at a time when the cost of living and inflation is rising. He suggested that consideration should be given to increasing assistance through rates rebates to help alleviate this situation.
8.2.4	Manager Democracy Services Richard Taylor explained the considerations taken into account by Council in responding to the challenges resulting from inflation, rising interest costs, supply chains disruption, staff shortages and a growing district.
8.2.5	These factors contributed to the level of the rates increase and maintaining service levels without any reduction to the activities being provided to the district’s communities.
8.2.6	It also recognised priorities in the work plan programmed for the 2022/2023 financial year, continued compliance, reviewing aging and underperforming assets, infrastructure investment and right-sizing of staff numbers.
8.2.7	The Board may wish to consider providing feedback on options for Council to reduce the proposed rates increase without having a detrimental impact on the projects, programmes and community services it provides.
8.2.8	Support to ratepayers eligible to apply for a rates rebate is determined by central government, and any increase through that scheme would need to be made by them through reviewing the amount of assistance able to be made available for that purpose.

9.1	Emergency Management
9.1.1	Board Member Kim Spooner-Taylor reported Council’s Emergency Operations Centre has been managing the Dannevirke water supply issues and weather event that impacted on parts of the district’s roading network.
9.1.2	Tararua Health Group and the district’s iwi have been managing the Covid-19 response that is impacting on the district’s communities, with some businesses experiencing a shortage of staff and an economic downturn.
9.2	Tararua Community Youth Services
9.2.1	Deputy Chairperson Board Member Terry Hynes advised he has resigned from Tararua Community Youth Services governance board, and will also vacate the role of the Board’s liaison representative with that community organisation.
9.3	Dannevirke Chamber of Commerce
9.3.1	Deputy Chairperson Board Member Terry Hynes reported a successful after five’s meeting was held at Allied Petroleum Dannevirke Fuel Stop and APB Amalgamated Packaging businesses at their sites on Miller Street.
9.3.2	Future after five’s meetings have been arranged with Members of Parliament speaking as follows: 2 May - Mark Mitchell (National Party - Spokesperson for Police, Serious Fraud Office and Counter-Terrorism) 26 May - Nicola Willis (National Party - Deputy Leader of the Opposition, Spokesperson for Finance and Social Investment) and Erica Stanford (National Party - Spokesperson for Education, Ethnic Communities and Immigration) 15 June - Grant Robertson (Labour Party - Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance, Infrastructure, Racing, Sport and Recreation)
9.4	Dannevirke Information Centre
9.4.1	Board Member Ross Macdonald reported Dannevirke Information Centre is operating well, and is in a satisfactory financial position.
9.5	Roading
9.5.1	Chairperson Board Member Pat Walshe reported he attended the community information session held in Wimbledon to update locals on progress being made with undertaking the Huarahi - Tūhono Weber to Wimbledon (Route 52 upgrade) project.
9.5.2	The Chairperson has been looking at defects in roads with Mayor Tracey Collis, and considering issues concerning pedestrian crossings in Dannevirke.

6.1	Eketāhuna War Memorial Hall Remembrance Area Lighting (Item 6.3)
6.1.1	A meeting was held with Mayor Tracey Collis to discuss the lighting of the remembrance area at the Eketāhuna War Memorial Hall, and options are to be considered regarding its ongoing maintenance.
6.2	Eketāhuna Domain Proposed Dog Walking Area (Item 6.4)
6.2.1	Council is currently consulting on the Dog Control Bylaw and Dog Control Policy that designates public places for providing dog exercise areas, and submissions can be made on that matter.
6.2.2	The proposal working with the community to consider the concept to develop a dog walking area at the Eketāhuna domain area is to be progressed through further investigation and discussion regarding its feasibility.
6.3	Eketāhuna Water Treatment Plant Upgrade (Item 7.2)
6.3.1	In addition to Council’s Bush Telegraph page it is requested that updates are provided on the project to upgrade the Eketāhuna water treatment plant through including a report in the Eketāhuna community newsletter.
6.3.2	Precautionary boil water notices were issued for Eketāhuna water supply as it has been just outside the mandatory drinking water standards, and they are lifted once three consecutive days of tests are received indicating the turbidity is clear.
6.3.3	While there was commentary on Facebook questioning why Eketāhuna didn’t receive a Fonterra tanker to access drinking water during that period (as occurred in Dannevirke) it is because that town’s water supply moved to a mandatory boil water notice (indicating an increased degree of risk concerning its very high turbidity level).
6.3.4	Logging occurring in the vicinity of the Eketāhuna water supply would have required the contractor to submit a plan to the Horizons Regional Council to undertake that work. This includes controls for managing any sediment resulting from that activity to ensure it did not impact on the water supply’s quality.
6.4	Eketāhuna Community Centre (Item 11)
6.4.1	Discussions have occurred with the Manager of Facilities Jessi McKenzie to ensure the appearance of Eketāhuna Community Centre is smart and neat for next year’s 150th anniversary Eketāhuna Jubilee.
6.4.2	Work is to be undertaken on the interior of the main hall, curtains replaced and new chairs provided.
6.5	Anzac Day (Item 6.6)
6.5.1	Painting of memorial crosses has been completed to honour the remembrance of those people from the Eketāhuna community that died serving their country in world war conflicts.
6.5.2	Flags for the commemoration of Anzac Day have been ordered, and arrangements for the Eketāhuna community ceremony are being progressed.
6.5.3	There will be no Anzac Day community ceremony held this year at Kaiparoro Anzac Memorial bridge, but an event is planned on 3 December 2022 to commemorate the centenary of its official opening.
6.5.4	The proposed hitching posts made from railway sleepers with a commemorative plaque to honour the memory of local men who served in the Eketāhuna Mounted Rifles are to be progressed for completion by Armistice Day in November this year.
6.6	Eketāhuna District Entry Signage (Item 6.2)
6.6.1	Feedback has been received that the new signage installed in Eketāhuna is difficult to read because of its location.
6.6.2	Due to overhead power lines and Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency requirements and suitable sites the options around installation were limited.
6.6.3	If viewing the sign becomes challenging a new style of sign will be designed utilising existing infrastructure and use the current sign on the new Te Ahu a Turanga Manawatu Tararua Highway when built.
6.6.4	The sign will be left in place until it is ready to be installed on the new highway, and discussions are occurring with Council’s designer about a new style of sign for Eketāhuna.

8.1	*That the minutes of the Council meeting held on 30 March 2022 (as circulated) be received.* Death/Treder Carried
8.2	Super Consultation Round 2
8.2.1	A copy of the Super Consultation Round 2 document is circulated to board members, and consideration could be given regarding any submissions or feedback from the Board (by 6 May 2022) in respect of the following matters: Annual Plan 2022/2023 District Strategy Housing Strategy Library Strategy Water Supply Bylaw Dog Control Policy and Bylaw Gambling and Venues Policy
8.2.2	Board members can discuss these topics with representatives of Council at the Super Consultation Expo held tomorrow at the Eketāhuna Community Centre from 1.00 to 4.00pm.
8.2.3	Concern is expressed regarding the proposed 11.37% rates increase, and the impact this will have on the community at a time when the cost of living and inflation is rising.
8.2.4	The considerations taken into account by Council in responding to the challenges resulting from inflation, rising interest costs, supply chains disruption, staff shortages and a growing district were explained.
8.2.5	These factors contributed to the level of the rates increase and maintaining service levels without any reduction to the activities being provided to the district’s communities.
8.2.6	It also recognised priorities in the work plan programmed for the 2022/2023 financial year, continued compliance, renewing aging and underperforming assets, infrastructure investment and right-sizing of staff numbers.
8.2.7	The Board may wish to consider providing feedback (by 6 May 2022) on options for Council to reduce the proposed rates increase without having a detrimental impact on projects, programmes and community services it provides.
8.3	Draft Regional Public Transport Plan 2022/2032
8.3.1	Horizons Regional Council is seeking community feedback on its draft Regional Public Transport Plan 2022/2032, and this sets the framework for how Horizons plans and delivers public transport services and infrastructure across the region over the next ten years. Submissions can be made closing on 12 May 2022.

14.1	Connecting with Community Organisations/Groups
14.1.1	Chairperson Board Member Pat Walshe spoke on the Board connecting with community organisations/groups and liaising with them through Board representatives attending their meetings.
14.1.2	This will assist to raise awareness of the Board’s role and how it may be able to help such organisations and groups to achieve their objectives.
14.1.3	Promoting an understanding about the Board and the work it undertakes could facilitate interest in encouraging people to stand for the Board at this year’s election.

7.1	Roy Hancock requested the Board seek a disabled parking space be provided in Haswell Street within the vicinity of the Eketāhuna Inn Hotel and the electric vehicle charging station.
7.2	Deputy Chairperson Board Member Steen McGhie will work with Roy Hancock to progress developing a proposal to support consideration being given to this suggestion for an area to be designated for that purpose.
7.3	In considering the feasibility of this proposal it will include consulting with the property owners in that vicinity and providing an indication of the likely use of a disabled car park located on that street.

9.1	Tararua District Road Safety Group
9.1.1	Deputy Chairperson Board Member Steen McGhie reported he spoke on the pedestrian crossing in Eketāhuna town centre at the Tararua District Road Safety Group meeting held by audio-visual link on 29 March 2022.
9.1.2	This followed up the request made by the Eketāhuna Our Town Committee to Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency seeking the pedestrian crossing be raised and coloured to make it safer.