The new Buller District Council (BDC) has been sworn in and councillors started their thorough internal induction last week. The new elected members will attend the Local Government New Zealand training in Hokitika next month providing a forum to network with other councillors from across the West Coast.
Mayor Jamie Cleine says: “We have a number of new councillors on board, and it may take a while for the new elected members to come fully up to speed on the various aspects of council’s strategy and day-to day business.”
Council has a busy programme of infrastructure projects underway post floods on top of the planned activities set out in the 2021 – 2031 Long Term Plan (LTP). Councils’ priorities are to repair key infrastructure, like the port and the old Reefton landfill, that was damaged during the major flood events as part of central government’s tranche 2 funding. Mr Cleine says: “There are some big topics on the near horizon with the Te Tai o Poutini Plan (TTPP) submissions closing in November, the Three Water Reform gaining momentum, and the draft report on Local Government Reform due to be released this month.” A key focus until the end of the year will be ensuring that the new council is well supported into their roles.
Mr Cleine says: “I will continue to ensure Buller remains a trusted partner especially when working alongside central government on key issues like flood recovery and climate adaptation which will require significant support. I have also had discussions with the previous chair of the WCRC and reached out to Buller’s WCRC elected representatives to ensure a positive relationship between BDC and WCRC. This is paramount to the success of the multi-tool business case for flood risk mitigation we have submitted to cabinet.” Council will continue fostering the strong relationship with Ngati Waewae and Ngati Apa and remains committed to further develop its cultural understanding and partnerships. Mr Cleine says:” Having Ned Tauwhare around the council table has added a new lens and enriched conversations and strategic thinking.” The regular Monday Mayor chats at the mayor’s office in the Clocktower Chambers will re-start. Members of the public can meet with the mayor personally during these chats. The monthly mayor radio interviews on Coast FM, the weekly Friday Forums on council’s facebook page and in the Westport News, as well as frequent updates through the Jamie Cleine – Buller Mayor facebook page will continue.
Early in the New Year councillors will come together for a restart workshop to discuss the 2023 strategic workplan and frame how council can best work together to achieve this.
Mr Cleine says: “Your councillors and I have a very busy first few months and we will focus on activities that will set council up for a strong start in the New Year.”
