Agenda of Te Puke Community Board Meeting

Te Puke Community Board Meeting Minutes

20 February 2025

UNCONFIRMED

MINUTES OF Western Bay of Plenty District Council
Te Puke Community Board Meeting No. TPC25-1
HELD IN THE Te Puke Library and Service Centre, 130 Jellicoe Street,

Te Puke (Boardroom) ON Thursday, 20 February 2025 AT 7.00pm

Cr Wichers opened the hui with a Karakia.

1 Present

Chairperson K Ellis, Member K Summerhays, Cr G Dally and Cr A Wichers.

2 In Attendance

C Crow (General Manager Infrastructure Services), R Garrett (Governance Manager)

Deputy Mayor J Scrimgeour, Cr L Rae, and 7 members of the public.

3 Apologies

3.1 APOLOGY

Resolution TPC25-1.1

Moved: Chairperson K Ellis

Seconded: Member K Summerhays

That the apologies for absence from Member N Chauhan and Member D Snell be accepted.

Carried

4 Consideration of Late Items

Nil

5 Declarations of Interest

Members were advised that if they had an interest (actual, potential, pecuniary or non-pecuniary interest) in any item on the agenda, then they must declare this interest and refrain from discussing or voting on this item and were advised to withdraw from the meeting table for the item.

· Chairperson K Ellis advised the Board that she had a declaration of financial interest regarding the Te Puke ANZAC Committee Grant Application in report 9.3 of the agenda – Te Puke Community Board – Grant Applications – February 2025.

· Cr Dally advised the Board that he had a declaration of interest regarding item 9.6 of the agenda – Te Puke Community Board – Landscape Road Footpath Options – February 2025 as a member of the Te Ara Kahikatea Pathway Society Inc.

6 Public Excluded Items

Nil

7 Public Forum

7.1 STEVE FAWCETT - VECTOR CHARITABLE TRUST

Mr Fawcett was in attendance on behalf of the Vector Charitable Trust to discuss a proposal for a Kai Resilience-Based Community Food Forest in Te Puke. He noted the below points:

· Mr Fawcett provided the Board with a proposal for a Kai Resilience-Based Community Food Forest in Te Puke (Tabled item 1).

· Mr Fawcett requested that the Board consider a space within Te Puke that could be a collaborative space between groups such as the Vector Charitable Trust, CoLab, and the Western Bay of Plenty Kai Resilience Group.

· It was noted that the space did not need to be large. Mr Fawcett suggested that a location close to the community garden would be beneficial.

7.2 LORNA COOPER - NO.1 ROAD SPEED TRAFFIC CALMING MEASURES

lorna cooper – No.1 road speed traffic calming measures

Mrs Cooper was in attendance to discuss the installation of traffic calming measures on No.1 Road. She noted the below points:

· Residents had been told that traffic calming measures would be put in place. Mrs Cooper wanted to know when this was intended to be actioned, considering that the kiwifruit harvest season was about to begin.

The Board provided the following updates:

· A speed calming device had been installed past the S-bend. However, it had been requested that it be moved temporarily to before the S-bend until the work on the lower part of the road was completed.

· It was suggested that Mrs Cooper co-ordinated with local residents on No.1 Road who owned a camera and speed recording device to capture the number plates of trucks speeding and provide these to Trevelyan’s and the police for action.

· The General Manager Infrastructure Services noted that the negotiations with J.Swap were completed. Construction on the lower part of the road was intended to begin after winter 2025.

The General Manager Infrastructure Services would follow up with Transportation staff on the relocation of the speed calming device.

7.3 CRAIG WALLACE - KEEP NEW ZEALAND BEAUTIFUL TE PUKE BRANCH

Mr Wallace was in attendance to provide an update on behalf of Keep New Zealand Beautiful Te Puke Branch. He noted the below points:

· Mr Wallace and his wife had set up the Keep New Zealand Beautiful Te Puke Branch.

· The drains and gutters within Te Puke were in a bad state, for example on Beattie Avenue.

· There was an issue with rubbish across Te Puke, with areas like the old railway station and KFC being especially bad.

The Board provided the following comments:

· There were a few trusts that had been working in the same space. It could be beneficial to organise a meeting between these trusts to understand whether there was a shared interest in supporting Mr Wallace’s work.

· Members encouraged Mr Wallace to enter the littering ‘hotspots’ into Antenno. This would make it easier for the Board to facilitate intervention in the main problem areas.

The General Manager Infrastructure Services would discuss with the relevant staff the feasibility of placing a skip at the recycle centre for residents, such as Mr Wallace, to dispose of large rubbish items found on the road/street to avoid Council having to send a contractor out to dispose of it. It was noted that this would need a process to ensure the skip did not become a free-for-all dumping place for household refuse.

7.5 VARIOUS SPEAKERS - LANDSCAPE ROAD FOOTPATH

Mrs Hodge (President of the Te Puke Squash Club) and Mr Rule were in attendance to discuss the location of the Landscape Road footpath. They noted the below points:

Helen Hodge

· Mrs Hodge noted that herself and other members of the Squash Club had met onsite with Board members and Transportation staff to discuss the location of the footpath.

· The Squash Club was intending to add an extension for a fourth squash court and potentially a carpark on the land owned by the club.

· Club members were not in favour of the footpath being placed in front of the club’s main entrance as it would have an impact on service vehicle access and the overall accessibility to the club.

· Club members preferred that the footpath be located between the club and the main road (Te Puke Highway) through McLoughlin Park, to keep traffic away from the club itself.

· The club was experiencing serious security issues and had had to install cameras and was in the process of installing further security lights. There had been incidents where non-members had used the facilities when the door had been unlocked or when members had been followed when leaving the club.

The Board members provided the following comments:

· Mrs Hodge was encouraged to submit an application to the CCTV Fund for an additional camera.

The General Manager Infrastructure Services would look into installing further street lighting within the area to improve the safety of members entering and exiting the club.

Steve Rule

· Mr Rule raised concern about previous near misses of young kids on bikes/parents with strollers coming up Landscape Road and shared his support for the footpath to be located through McLoughlin Park.

· It was suggested that Council install new toilets in conjunction with the new proposed carpark being built by the club.

· Mr Rule noted the impact that truck trailers had on parking spaces and the condition of the road.

The Board advised that Council was about to review its parking bylaw.

7.1 CHANGE ORDER OF BUSINESS

Resolution TPC25-1.2

Moved: Member K Summerhays

Seconded: Cr A Wichers

That in accordance with Standing Order 9.4 the order of business be changed and that item 9.6 be dealt with as the next item of business.

Carried

9.6 Te Puke Community Board - Landscape Road Footpath Options - February 2025

The Board considered a report dated 20 February 2025 from the Project Engineer Transportation. The report was taken as read, with further discussion as below:

· As option 3 was a new option, members were interested in looking at it in a broader concept in the form of a Reserve Management Plan (RMP). It was noted that this was an opportunity to review how the reserve was being used; including the facilities, the issue of freedom camping, and how it could be better utilised in the future and developed to be a destination area.

· A review of the reserves functions would provide an opportunity for the Board and staff to investigate the freedom camping and littering issues, the possibility of naturalising the drains, as well as look into installing further facilities such as larger toilets and a BBQ area.

· It was raised that the RMP for Te Puke had not long been reviewed, therefore, it was more appropriate for the Board to request a concept plan for McLoughlin Park.

· Members noted the importance of workshopping the concept with interested parties within the community prior to progressing with the project.

· There was a risk that the placing the footpath through McLoughlin Park would not prevent people from walking down Landscape Road.

· It was raised by members that the outcome of a wider concept plan for McLoughlin Park was not guaranteed to be within scope of the Board’s funding.

The General Manager Infrastructure Services discussed the following:

· He encouraged the Board to commit the remainder of the Community Board Roading Account before the end of the 2024/25 financial year. He noted that this would ring-fence the funds and reserve the funds for those specific projects.

· A challenge that would arise if Option 3 was to be progressed would be that lighting would not be placed along the footpath so as not to encourage night time activity within McLoughlin Park.

The General Manager Infrastructure Services would commission the development of a wider concept plan for McLoughlin Park. He would also contact contractors and liaise with the Board’s Chairperson to organise a community consultation workshop, which would include consultation on the placement of the footpath.

Resolution TPC25-1.3

Moved: Member K Summerhays

Seconded: Cr A Wichers

1. That the Project Engineer Transportation report dated 20 February 2025 titled ‘Te Puke Community Board - Landscape Road Footpath Options – February 2025’ be received.

2. That the Te Puke Community Board resolves to proceed with the design of Option 3: Footpath through McLoughlin Park with the approved budget of $100,000; and agrees that engagement will be held with the community on the alignment of the pathway.

3. That the Te Puke Community Board approves a budget of up to $10,000 for development of a wider concept plan for McLoughlin Park to include the various uses and possible facilities noted at the Community Board meeting, and that the concept plan be presented back to the next Community Board meeting on 03 April 2025.

Carried

8 Minutes for Confirmation

8.1 Minutes of the Te Puke Community Board Meeting held on 21 November 2024

· Members noted that they were still awaiting an update regarding the Strategic Buildings report and had yet to receive a response on the Trees of Te Puke report.

Resolution TPC25-1.4

Moved: Member K Summerhays

Seconded: Cr G Dally

1. That the Minutes of the Te Puke Community Board Meeting held on 21 November 2024 as circulated with the agenda be confirmed as a true and correct record.

2. That the Chairperson’s electronic signature be inserted into the confirmed minutes.

Carried

9 Reports

9.1 Te Puke Community Board - Chairperson's Report - February 2025

The Board considered a report from the Chairperson. The report was taken as read.

Resolution TPC25-1.5

Moved: Cr A Wichers

Seconded: Member K Summerhays

1. That the Chairperson’s report dated 20 February 2025 titled ‘Te Puke Community Board – Chairperson’s report – February 2025’ be received.

2. That the Te Puke Community Board approves a budget of $130.00 from the Reserves Account for the purchase and installation of a Liquor Ban Sign that will be installed outside the Te Puke War Memorial Hall.

Carried

9.1.1 External Committee Updates

Te Ara Kahikatea Pathway Society Inc

· A karakia was held 7 February 2025, with Tapuika and Waitaha present, to bless the Lawrence Oliver Park wetland site, and the contractors had begun work the week of 10 February 2025.

· Council had helped to fund a pathway around the wetland and had suggested putting a boardwalk across the wetland to enable access from outside of the wetland.

· An associated group called Te Puke Trails Trust had planned to meet with Council in the hopes of gaining resource consents needed to progress projects.

EPIC

· The group was collaborating well and looking to grow and develop things further.

Made in Te Puke Trust

· The group was overseeing the traffic management plan for the Maketu ANZAC Dawn Service and was also heavily involved in the preparations for Te Kete Matariki.

· The Te Puke Markets were held every third Saturday of the month until April 2025.

ANZAC Committee

· Preparations for ANZAC Day were progressing nicely.

· A discussion was needed about how the traditions of Te Puke’s ANZAC Day would be maintained long-term.

Te Puke Emergency Response

· First meeting of the year was held 19 February 2025. The group was looking to further workshop and engage with the surrounding communities and relevant groups.

Te Puke Community Charitable Trust

· The Te Puke Community Fund was moving along nicely. The group had received a tentative agreement from both Tapuika and Waitaha to provide two representatives for the allocation committee.

· The Trust was in the process of finalising the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Acorn to transfer the funds through, which was planned to be completed by the end of March 2025.

Gardens on Wheels

· In the beginning stages of planning Gardens on Wheels 2025 without association with the wider Garden and Arts Festival.

Sustainable Endeavours Charitable Trust

· Two new trustees with the Te Puke area had been identified. These representatives were looking to establish themselves as an environmental trust within their Te Puke area.

9.1.2 Liqour Ban Sign

Concern was raised in regard to the cost estimate provided by staff for the purchase and installation of the liquor ban sign, noting that it seemed too low.

9.1.3 Heritage Plaza

· It was noted that both General Managers from Tapuika and Waitaha had provided their verbal support in regard to assisting with the art works for the artistic side of the project. A letter would be provided confirming this.

· It was likely that rocks for Stage One of the project would come from local iwi. The initial structure would need to accommodate for the inclusion of the rocks.

The General Manager Infrastructure Services confirmed that the quotes for the project were being finalised.

9.1.4 Representation Review

It was noted that an appeal was lodged against Council’s Representation Review decision by the Board, and was approved by all members (excluding members who were Councillors).

9.1.5 Mayor Pittar Memorial Plaque

Board members suggested that the memorial plaque for former Mayor Pittar be funded by Council.

It was noted that there was potentially a private funder who would fund the plaque instead.

9.1.5 History Boards

Cr Dally would liaise with the supplier to obtain the final designs for two history boards, which would be presented at the next Board meeting on 3 April 2025 for the Board’s approval.

It was suggested by members that the Board should have delegated the operations of the project to staff.

9.2 Te Puke Community Board - Councillor's Report - February 2025

The Board considered a report from Councillor Wichers. The report was taken as read.

Resolution TPC25-1.6

Moved: Cr A Wichers

Seconded: Chairperson K Ellis

1. That the report from Councillor Wichers dated 20 February 2025 titled ‘Te Puke Community Board – Councillor’s Report – February 2025’ be received.

Carried

9.2.1 ByLaw Consultation

Natural Cemeteries

· The bylaw needed to change to allow for natural burials.

· The bylaw would go out for consultation, which included a clause on Natural Cemeteries, and would be publicly notified as per all Council’s consultation documents.

Traffic and Parking Enforcement by-law

· The bylaw allowed Council to set requirements for parking enforcement and control of traffic on roads and public places that were owned or controlled by Council, setting out parameters for Council staff to enforce.

· The Board was encouraged to provide feedback around any specific parking concerns in the Te Puke area.

It was noted that further engagement from staff with the Board on by-laws and policy reviews was needed.

The General Manager Infrastructure Services would feed this back to relevant staff members.

9.2.2 Appointment of Interim Chief Executive Officer

It was noted that Miriam Taris had been appointed as the interim Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Council.

9.3 Te Puke Community Board - Grant Applications - February 2025

The Board considered a report from the Governance Advisor. The report was taken as read, with further discussion as below.

Chairperson K Ellis declared a financial interest in the Te Puke ANZAC Committee Grant Application and took no part in the discussion or voting on this application.

The Board did not support the application from Te Puke Gymsport Incorporated as they did not consider it to be a strategic fit with the Board’s funding priorities.

Resolution TPC25-1.8

Moved: Cr A Wichers

Seconded: Member K Summerhays

1. That the Governance Advisor’s report dated 20 February 2025 titled ‘Te Puke Community Board – Grant Applications – February 2025’ be received.

2. That the Te Puke Community Board approves the grant application from the Citizens RSA Te Puke ANZAC Committee for $1,000, to contribute towards catering and other operational expenses for the Te Puke ANZAC Day Service. This grant will be funded from the Te Puke Community Board Grants Account, subject to all accountabilities being met.

Carried

Resolution TPC25-1.9

Moved: Cr A Wichers

Seconded: Cr G Dally

That the Te Puke Community Board does not approve the grant application from Te Puke Gymsport Incorporated.

Carried

9.3 Te Puke Community Board - ANZAC Day Commemoration 2025

The Board considered a report from the Governance Advisor. The report was taken as read, with the Board requesting that the floral arrangement be provided by the local Te Puke Florist.

Resolution TPC25-1.10

Moved: Cr A Wichers

Seconded: Member K Summerhays

1. That the Governance Advisor’s report dated 20 February 2025, titled ‘Te Puke Community Board – ANZAC Day Commemoration 2025’, be received.

2. That the report relates to an issue that is considered to be of low significance in terms of Council’s Significance and Engagement Policy.

3. That the Te Puke Community Board approves up to $200 to provide a floral arrangement for the ANZAC Day Service, to be paid from the Te Puke Community Board Reserves Account.

4. That Chairperson K Ellis represents the Te Puke Community Board at the ANZAC Day Service in Te Puke on 25 April 2025. Carried

9.5 Te Puke Community Board - Projects and Operations Report - February 2025

The Board considered a report from the Executive Assistant Infrastructure Group. The report was taken as read.

Resolution TPC25-1.11

Moved: Chairperson K Ellis

Seconded: Member K Summerhays

1. That the Executive Assistant Infrastructure Group‘s report dated 20 February 2025 titled ‘Te Puke Community Board – Projects and Operations Report – February 2025’ be received.

2. That the Te Puke Community Board approves to spend up to $10,000 from the Roading Account on the road safety audit of Bramble Bridge to determine what actions need to be taken to improve pedestrian safety on the bridge.

Carried

9.5.1 Commerce Lane Safety Improvements

The Board requested that pedestrian crossing signs be installed on Commerce Lane to finish off the safety improvements.

9.5.2 Your Place Tō wāhi

Concern was raised by Board members about the lack of Community Board visibility on Councils website ‘Your Place Tō wāhi’.

Members were encouraged to send an email to info@westernbay.govt.nz providing feedback on the website.

9.5.3 Removal of Pedestrian Crossing Sign on Jellicoe Street

Board members noted that the pedestrian crossing sign on Jellicoe Street was removed without the Board’s sign-off, therefore, the Board felt it was not appropriate for the costs to fall on them.

The General Manager Infrastructure Services acknowledged the error and committed to paying for the removal from his own budget, not the Board’s roading account.

9.5.4 Compliance and Enforcement

The Board noted its interest in gaining further information and understanding of the freedom camping and illegal dumping complaints, in order to form an idea or map of hot spots in the area.

The General Manager Infrastructure Services informed the Board that Council had approved the use of Baycorp to enforce collection of dumping fines.

9.5.5 Bramble Bridge Safety Audit

The Board queried what benefit they would get from commissioning a safety audit.

The General Manager Infrastructure Services noted that safety audits were required. It was unclear what the outcome of the safety audit would be, however, it would suggest options that could be used for temporary mitigations that could improve pedestrian safety.

9.7 Te Puke Community Board - Streetlight Painting - February 2025

The Board considered a report from the Asset Engineer Transportation. The report was taken as read.

Resolution TPC25-1.12

Moved: Chairperson K Ellis

Seconded: Cr G Dally

1. That the Asset Engineer Transportation’s report dated 20 February 2025 titled “Te Puke Community Board - Streetlight Painting - February 2025” be received.

2. That the report relates to an issue that is of low significance in terms of Council’s Significance and Engagement Policy.

3. That the Te Puke Community Board does not approve the repainting of streetlight columns.

Carried

9.8 Te Puke Community Board - Financial Report December 2024

The Board considered a report from the Financial Business Partner Lead. The report was taken as read.

Resolution TPC25-1.13

Moved: Chairperson K Ellis

Seconded: Cr G Dally

1. The Financial Business Partner Lead’s report dated 20 February 2025 titled ‘Te Puke Community Board – Financial Report December 2024’ be received.

2. That the Te Puke Community Board requests that the Finance Business Partner Lead attends the next Community Board workshop to discuss any issues with operational expenditure.

Carried

9.8.1 Disc Golf Course Advertising

The Board queried what Council’s policy was regarding sponsors being publicised on the Disc Golf Course that was set to go into Donovan Park, therefore advertising on a Council reserve.

The General Manager Infrastructure Services would follow up on this query and feed back to the Board.

9.8.2 Overdue Invoices

It was noted that the contractor building the bus shelter on Manoeka Road had yet to be paid for the purchase of materials or labour.

Concern was raised about the delay in Council’s payment of invoices.

10 Information for Receipt

Nil.

Cr Wichers closed the hui with a karakia.

The meeting closed at 9.52pm

Confirmed as a true and correct record at the Te Puke Community Board meeting held on 3 April 2025.

...................................................

Chairperson K Ellis

CHAIRPERSON

Te Puke Community Board Meeting Agenda

3 April 2025

9.3 Te Puke Community Board - Councillor's Report - April 2025

File Number: A6692180

Author: Grant Dally, Councillor

Authoriser: Cedric Crow, General Manager Infrastructure Services

Executive Summary

1. The purpose of this report is for Councillor Dally to provide the Board with updates on the items listed below.

Recommendation

1. That the report from Councillor Dally dated 03 April 2025 titled ‘Te Puke Community Board – Councillor’s Report – April 2025’ be received.

Annual plan

Key Messages

What is an Annual Plan?

The Annual Plan is Council’s updated plan for the coming financial year, setting out the work we are planning to do in your community over the next 12 months (1 July 2025-30 June 2026).

Its our chance to refresh information and budgets for the coming year and include the setting of rates. Through this process we consider what was outlined in the Long-Term Plan (LTP) and assess what changes are needed to reflect current circumstances and community needs.

The upcoming Annual Plan 2025/26 is year two of the LTP 2024-34, which was adopted in September 2024.

We’re getting on with what we promised

We’re committed to delivering on the promises we made in last year’s LTP 2024-34. Since adopting the plan in September 2024, we’ve been working hard to progress the projects that matter most to our community.

Despite economic challenges, legislative uncertainties, and a slowdown in the construction sector, we’re keeping budget changes to a minimum. These adjustments reflect more accurate costs and timings, ensuring we stay on track with our commitments.

We’ve made some changes to account for variations in timing and costs, and where possible, we’ve identified savings. However, these budget changes are not significant under the Councils Significance and Engagement Policy.

Rates are lower than planned

After reviewing our plan, we’ve managed to reduce the average rate increase to 7.42%, down from 10.13% proposed for Year 2 of the LTP. This reduction is due to lower inflation, decreased interest rates, and cost savings.

We’ve achieved these efficiencies while still delivering the services our community relies on. By carefully managing our resources and finding savings, we’ve been able to lower the rate increase without compromising on our commitments.

Updates to reflect current environment

As part of developing the Annual Plan, we’ve introduced funding for several important projects:

· Repairs to ensure the Katikati Arts Junction building is weather tight and remains fit for purpose.

· Implementation of an Enterprise Resource Planning cloud software solution specific to local government, replacing the existing Ozone system.

· Stage implementation of the concept plans for Beach Road Boat Ramp and Surrounds, and Tahawai Reserve.

We’ve also made the following decisions:

· Agreed on our approach to transportation funding, considering the NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi’s funding decision.

· Deferred roofing the Dave Hume Pool until 2033 due to escalating costs.

· Reviewed and reduced Community Hall budgets to ensure all Community Hall targeted rates are below $50.00.

These additions and changes are essential but do not significantly alter our overall plan. We’re committed to getting on with the projects that matter to our community.

Increase to volumetric water rates/consumption change

We’ve reviewed our water consumption modelling and found that consumption is lower than forecasted. To balance the funding of our water supply activity between user pays and fixed charges, we’re increasing the consumption charge to $1.75 per cubic metre.

An average household uses about 200 cubic metres of water per annum, so they will now pay an additional $64 per year for water by volume. However, the fixed charge has been reduced from $435.62 to $398.03, so the net effect for the average water user is $26.41 increase.

There is a constant tension between volumetric charge and consumption. As the price rises, people tend to modify their behaviour and reduce water usage. This is good for Council as it delays the requirement for bringing on additional water supplies, but means that budgeted income needs to be continually monitored as usage drops off. Water supply operates on a net zero cost recovery basis, we are not aiming to profit from the activity, but equally we can’t afford to run at a loss.

Changes to reflect Representation Review final proposal

We've made changes to how Community Boards will be funded for 2025/26 to align with Council’s Representation Review final proposal. The Local Government Commission (LGC) held a public hearing on 13 March (12 submitters against, and 1 for the proposal were heard via zoom) and will make its final decision by 11 April 2025. In the meantime, we need to plan based on Council’s final proposal, which includes changes to the number and representation arrangements of Community Boards.

Currently, Community Boards are funded through a targeted rate. However, for 2025/26, the decision has been made to fund them through the Uniform Annual General Charge (UAGC). This means everyone will contribute to the funding of Community Boards, (except Matakana and Rangiwaea Island residents as there will not be a Community Board that covers these communities, instead the funds from these areas will be used as grants towards marae on Matakana and Rangiwaea).

If the LGC decides to keep the Community Boards unchanged, the funding will remain as it is currently, through targeted rates.

Council focuses on delivery this Annual Plan - Western Bay of Plenty District Council

FAQs

What is an Annual Plan?

Annual Plans give us the opportunity to refresh information and budgets for the coming year and include the setting of rates. Annual plans are produced for the years between LTP’s.

Why can Council’s choose not to consult on Annual Plans?

A series of amendments were made to the Local Government Act 2002 (the Act) in 2014 to encourage new ways of consulting and communicating with the community and focus on the major matters.

One of these amendments removed the requirement for councils to formally consult “if there are no significant or material differences to the content of the long-term plan”. This now makes formal consultation on proposed Annual Plans exceptions based.

An Annual Plan that includes an overview of any minor changes in costs (along with all other information required under Part 2 of Schedule 10 of the Act) must still be prepared and adopted by Council resolution before 30 June.

How do we determine what’s significant?

At its most simple, significance is how big an issue might be and how much it impacts our communities.

Section 5 of the Local Government Act 2002 (the Act) describes “significance” as the degree of importance of any issue, proposal, decision, or matter, as assessed by the local authority, in terms of its likely impact on, and consequences for:

• the district or region;

• anyone likely to be particularly affected or interested; and

• the capacity of the local authority to perform its role, & the financial and other costs of doing so.

Section 5 also describes “significant” as any issue, proposal, decision, or other matter having a “high degree of significance”, that is:

• significant or material variations/departures from the financial statements or funding impact statement in the LTP;

• significant new spending proposals, and the associated costs; or

• substantial delays to, or cancellation of, significant projects, and associated implications.

The Council is required to have a significance and engagement policy under Section 76AA of the Local Government Act 2002. The Policy is reviewed every three years as part of LTP’s.

Significance is more than a financial impact and often items with low value but are of high public interest can be significant.

Significance is ultimately determined by the elected members – read our Significance and Engagement Policy on our website (Significance and Engagement Policy 2023.pdf).

What’s the difference between formal consultation and engagement?

Consultation involves receiving public feedback on proposals and is one form of engagement. The Council regularly consults communities through processes such as the LTP, which determine Council’s strategic direction, as well as how it sets budgets and prioritises projects.

The Council will consult with the community about significant decisions following the principles set out in Section 82 of the Act. The Council can also decide to consult at any time on a decision, where it considers it appropriate. For most Council decisions, there is no express requirement to consult with the public, but we will consider people’s views and preferences.

Engagement is a broader and ongoing process of sharing information with the community and seeking its feedback, with the purpose of involving the community in the process of decision-making. This may or may not include a more formal consultation process.

How else can I give feedback throughout the year?

Engaging with our community happens all year round, not just when it comes time for the Annual Plan process.

Ongoing feedback channels for our community continue to be available, such as online through Your Place, as part of engagement opportunities on individual projects as they progress, contacting Elected Members, the Chief Executive or coming to speak at public forums.

Local Waters Done Well

At the Council meeting on 18 March 2025 Council approved the consultation document for the water service delivery model to be consulted with the community from 24 March to 24 April 2025.

Local Water Done Well is the coalition government’s approach to the future management of three waters in New Zealand. The approach is provided for in the Local Government (Water Services Preliminary Arrangements) Act (the Act) and the Local Government (Water Services) Bill released in December 2024.

The Act requires Council to prepare a Water Service Delivery Plan (WSDP). This plan must include the delivery model for water services that will meet the requirements of the Act i.e. financial sustainability, compliance with regulatory standards for water, wastewater, and stormwater.

At the Council meeting on 3 March 2025, Council considered the analysis and modelling that demonstrated that the preferred option for delivery of water services is a joint Council Water Services Council-Controlled Organisation (WSCCO). This is also referred to as a ‘multi-Council WSCCO’ in the reports prepared by Martin-Jenkins.

Council decided to consult on three water service delivery models:

1. retaining the current model;

2. moving to a single Council Water Services Council-Controlled Organisation; and/or

3. establishing a joint Council Water Services Council-Controlled Organisation

(preferred model).

A community drop-in session will be held in Te Puke on Saturday 12 April, 10:30am – 12:30pm at the Te Puke War Memorial Hall, Settlers Lounge, 130 Jellicoe St, Te Puke. Staff will be available to provide more clarification and record people’s feedback.

More information can be found here: Local Water Done Well | Your Place Western Bay of Plenty

Te Puke Spatial Plan Review

Another Te Puke Spatial Plan (TPSP) Workshop was held for the TPSP sub-committee on 20 March in the Te Puke Library Board Room. Staff had distilled all the information and feedback received during the initial engagement period and members were requested to provide input on key themes and potential housing, transport, and zone plan overlays to further refine the draft plan that will go up to Council for approval before going out for formal consultation later in the year. Broad themes remain - Community, Environment, Housing, and Transport.

Maketu-Te Puke Ward Community Forum

Our next Community Forum will be hosted by the Paengaroa Community Association and Chair Sue Matthews at the Paengaroa Hall on 21 May 2025. The format will be the same as our last big one at the Orchard Church, with a focus on providing project information and updates with staff and elected members present to answer questions from members of the public.

More info can be found here: 2025 Community Forums - Western Bay of Plenty District Council

Muir Place Residents Flooding Issues

The residents of Muir Place in Te Puke have been concerned about floodwaters of the Ohineangaanga Stream encroaching on their homes during heavy rain events. They have been to Council, and the Projects and Monitoring Committee Meetings to speak in the public forum to voice their concerns and have asked that a list of their questions be answered by Council staff. It is a constant worry for them, and they would like as much assurance as possible from Council for their ongoing peace of mind.

Further Updates

For more information about other Council activity in Te Puke, including Transportation updates on No.1 Road Rehabilitation and the No.4 Road Bridge Replacement, please click on this link:

Te Puke | Your Place Western Bay of Plenty

Te Puke Community Board Meeting Agenda

3 April 2025

PROJECT UPDATES – ROADING

SAFETY IMPROVEMENTS ON CAMERON ROAD

Project Description

Staff Comment/Update

Progress Level

With the Board resolving to remove the Speed Bump outside Te Puke Intermediate School on Cameron Road, it has been identified that there would need to be safety improvements made to this stretch of road.

Latest Update:

The contractor has been engaged, and the project is programmed to begin over the Easter School Holiday’s (April 14 2025).

In progress.

HERITAGE PLAZA

Project Description

Staff Comment/Update

Progress Level

Refurbishment of the Heritage Plaza and procurement of local services.

Latest Update:

The Board undertook engagement with Tapuika and Waitaha.

The Board have requested a report on the project design and final costings of stage one of the project. This report has been included within this agenda.

In progress

COMMERCE LANE SAFETY PROPOSALS

Project Description

Staff Comment/Update

Progress Level

Safety upgrades to Commerce Lane.

Latest Update:

Project has been completed

Completed

LANDSCAPE ROAD FOOTPATH

Project Description

Staff Comment/Update

Progress Level

Installation of a footpath along Landscape Road along the road reserve in McCloughlin Park.

Latest Update:

At the 20 February 2025 meeting, the Board resolved to progress with Option 3: placing the footpath through McLoughlin Park.

The General Manager Infrastructure Services will arrange an engagement evening with interested parties to determine the exact location of the footpath.

In progress.

FAIRHAVEN PARK FOOTPATH

Project Description

Staff Comment/Update

Progress Level

Installation of a footpath through Fairhaven Park.

Latest Update:

Project is currently in construction and due to be completed March 2025.

In progress.

GEORGE STREET FOOTPATH

Project Description

Staff Comment/Update

Progress Level

Installation of a footpath on George Street to Improve Pedestrian Safety.

Latest Update:

This project has been completed.

Completed

BRAMBLE BRIDGE SAFETY AUDIT

Project Description

Staff Comment/Update

Progress Level

Safety Audit of Bramble Bridge

Latest Update:

Consultants have been engaged to undertake a safety review of Bramble Bridge in relation to pedestrian movements. Once completed, recommendations will be shared with the Board.

In progress.

Minute action sheets – roading

Removal of Pedestrian Sign on Jellicoe Street
Meeting Date	Description	Latest Update
21 November 2024	The Board have requested the removal of a pedestrian sign on Jellicoe Street.	This project has been completed. The costs of this project will not be charged to the Board.

Road Safety Audit on Bramble Bridge

Meeting Date

Description

Latest Update

23 January Workshop

The Board discussed safety improvements on Bramble bridge. The Director Transportation suggested that the Board fund a Road Safety Audit to determine the improvements that would be needed to improve pedestrian safety.

The following resolution was passed at the Boards formal meeting 20 February 2025:

Resolution TPC25-1.1

That the Te Puke Community Board approves to spend up to $10,000 from the Roading Account on the Road Safety Audit of Bramble bridge to determine what actions need to be taken to improve pedestrian safety on the bridge.

This item has been moved to the projects section of the report as it is an on-going project.

Project updates – Reserves

HISTORY BOARDS

Project Description

Staff Comment/Update

Progress Level

Installation of History Boards

The Board has received approval to progress with two history boards, however, the final design needs to be confirmed before installation.

In progress.

BBQ BEN KEYS PLAYGROUND

Project Description

Staff Comment/Update

Progress Level

BBQ Installation at Ben Keys Playground

All the preparation has been done. The BBQ will arrive within the coming weeks, once it has been received it will be installed within a matter of days.

This project is estimated to be completed by the end of April 2025.

In progress.

MCLOUGHLIN PARK WIDER CONCENPT PLAN

Project Description

Staff Comment/Update

Progress Level

Wider concept plan for McLoughlin Park

Staff are drafting a wider concept plan for McLoughlin Park which will be presented to the Board upon completion.

In progress.

Project updates – operations

ESTABLISHING COMMUNITY RESOURCE RECOVERY CENTRES (CRRC)

Project Description

Staff Comment/Update

Progress Level

Establishing community resource recovery centres at the Te Puke Recycle Centre, working with Iwi and community groups.

Council staff meet with a small group on 20 March 2025 to answer questions and provide councils direction on the project which is “to support community led resource recovery at the Te Puke Recycle Centre”.

Group members have gone away to give the opportunity to and approach the appropriate organisations/people to be involved.

In progress.

Te Puke Community Board Meeting Agenda

3 April 2025

Service Requests

This section is to provide an overview of Service Request for the Te Puke Community Board area since the last meeting.

There has been one of each of the following subtypes of Service Requests raised and completed.

· Building Act Compliance - Building Compliance

· Consents Administration - General enquiry/call-back

· Local Road - Local Road Marking - Request for re-marking

· Local Road - Shoulders Local/Edge break/Dropout/Low Shoulder

· Reserves & Facilities - Pests - Insect/Animal

· Reserves & Facilities - Reserve Buildings/Roads/Tracks/Furniture

· Reserves & Facilities - Vandalism/Broken Glass on Reserves/Playground

· Stormwater - Flooding open drain/culvert-raining only

· Wastewater - Sewage overflow/spill on ground/dump station

· Water - Emergency Shutdown

· Water - Reinstatement after works

· Reserves & Facilities - Trees (only)

· Collections - General enquiry/call back

· Local Road - Detritus (Loose Chips/Sand/Dead Animal) - NO Illegal Dumping

· Local Road - Local Road Signs (damaged/graffiti) - Replacement/Maintenance Asset Requests

· Reserves & Facilities - Park and Playground Equipment

· Reserves & Facilities - Public Toilets (Hygiene/Paper ONLY)

· Roads Network Management - Local Road Signs - Request for new/additional

· Wastewater - Grinder Pump/Septic Tank issue

· Wastewater - Sewer pipe block/damaged/broke

· Water - Meter/Toby issue (not leak)

· Water - Water pressure too high or low

There has been one of each of the following subtypes of Service Requests raised, which are under investigation.

· Animal Services - ANIMAL - Dog attacked (and made contact)

· Reserves & Facilities - Graffiti in Reserve ONLY

· Wastewater – Waste Water Man Hole lost lid or repair WHITE

· Reserves & Facilities - General enquiry/Call-back

· Roads Network Management - Roading Network GENERAL/Miscellaneous

· Water - No Water

The table below shows Service Requests that are higher in numbers and have a mix of statuses.

Service Request Subtype	Notes	Completed	Under Investigation/Scheduled for Completion
Animal Services – Dog Barking	Reports from across the Te Puke Community	7	2
Animal Services – Dog Roaming	Reports from across the Te Puke Community – Multiple reports rom NO 3 Road	10	2
Animal Services – Found and Collected	Reports from across Te Puke - Multiple reports from Dunlop Road	5	0
Animal Services – Lost Dog	Reports from Manoeka Road, Tui Street and Williams Drive	3	0
Animal Services – Other Enquiries	General enquiries from across the Te Puke Community	8	2
Animal Services – Dog Attacked and made contact	Reports from Jellicoe Street and Tui Street	1	2
Animal Services – Roaming Stock	Reports from NO1 Road and Rangiuru Road	2	0
Building Warrant of Fitness	WOF requests for Queen Street and Jellicoe Street	2	0
Building Act Compliance – General	Enquiries from across the Te Puke Community	4	0
Pool Barrier Inspection Outcomes	Reports to multiple properties across the Te Puke Community	10	0
Building – General	Enquiries from across the Te Puke Community	15	0
Cemeteries - Headstone/Plaque	Requests across the Te Puke Community	8	0
Cemeteries - Plot Enquiry	Enquiries from across the Te Puke Community	5	2
Compliance & Enforcement General	General enquiries from across Te Puke	3	1
Complaints about Freedom Camping affecting Reserves or Roads	Complaints regarding Landscape Road, Jocelyn Street and Palmer Place	5	3
Compliance and Enforcement – Signs	Reports from Te Puke Highway, NO 3 Road and Macloughlin Drive	2	1
Customer Service Planning – General	Enquiries and call back requests from across the Te Puke Community	15	0
Kaupapa Maori – General	Enquiries and call back requests from across the Te Puke Community	3	0
Kerbside Collective - Damaged Bin	Replace/Repair request from across Te Puke – multiple requests from Moehau Street	8	2
Kerbside General Enquiry	Enquiries and callback requests from across the Te Puke Community	3	1
Kerbside Collective - Missed Collection	Reports from Fairview Place, Jellicoe Street and NO 3 Road	10	0
Local Road - ALL Cesspit/Grill/Gutters & Drains (sealed road)	Reports from across the Te Puke Community	12	3
Local Roads - Footpaths on Local Road	Reports from across the Te Puke Community – Multiple reports from Seddon Street and Jellicoe Street	12	0
Local Roads – General	Enquiries and callback requests from across Te Puke – Multiple requests from NO 1 Road, NO 4 Road and Boucher Avenue	24	5
Local Roads – Lighting	Replacement or Maintenance Asset Requests from Bayly Place, NO 2 Road and Jellicoe Street	3	0
Local Roads - Tree Requests	Request for trimming or removal of fallen tree/branch from across Te Puke	12	5
Road Surface Defects	Reports from across the Te Puke Community	5	3
Local Roads – Vegetation (not trees)/mowing	Reports from across the Te Puke Community	10	3
Pensioner Housing - 9 Slater Place Te Puke	General enquiries from across the Te Puke Community	10	1
Refuse - Illegal Dumping + Carcasses	Reports from across the Te Puke Community – multiple from Jellicoe Street, Jocelyn Street and NO 3 Road	21	0
Reserves General	Enquiries from across the Te Puke Community	5	0
Local Roads – Tree Removal	Removal requests from Jellicoe Street and Jocelyn Street	7	0
Wastewater – General	Reports from Ben Keys Street	2	1
Water – Leaks	Reports from across the Te Puke Community	24	6
No water – Known Issue	Reports from Cutwater Road	4	0
Water – General	Enquires and call back requests from Boucher Avenue and Te Puke Highway	1	1
Water Revenue – General	Enquiry and callback requests from across the Te Puke Community	4	2

Te Puke Community Board Meeting Agenda

3 April 2025

9.8 Te Puke Community Board - Financial Report February 2025

File Number: A6698197

Author: Allan Carey, Finance Business Partner Lead

Authoriser: Sarah Bedford, Finance Manager

Executive Summary

This report provides the Community Board with two-monthly monitoring of its operational budget. Attached are the financial statements for the period ended 28 February 2025 (Attachment 1).

Total operational costs are under budget year to date for 2024/25 by $3,161.

The Te Puke Community Board Roading Current Account has now been incorporated into the financial report. The opening balance of $1,268,300, has been reduced by spending on projects and now has a balance of $1,148,363 as at February 2025 excluding commitments and has a balance available for future projects of $762,897 after including commitments for current approved projects. Attached is a more detailed report for the period ended February 2025 (Attachment 2).

Recommendation

1. The Financial Business Partner Lead’s report dated 3 April 2025 titled ‘Te Puke Community Board – Financial Report February 2025’ be received.

Grant payments made to date:

Resolution	Description	$
TPC24-5.23	Approved $1,000 from the Grants Account for the Community Patrols - Te Puke Branch	1,000
TPC24-5.4	Approved $1,200 from the Grants Account to the Rangiuru Sports Club	1,200
TPC24-5.25	Approved $2,500 from the Grants Account for the Te Ara Kahikatea Incorporated	2,500
	2024/25 Total grants paid to date	4,700

Committed – Operational expenditure:

Resolution	Description	$
TPC23-2.4	Approve the funding for the installation of power for a second Christmas tree at the Te Puke west entrance at an estimated cost of $15,000 to be funded from their Street Decoration account. ($6044 spent).	8,956
TPC23-4.4	Approves the installation of public Wi-Fi in Jubilee Park at an estimated cost of $3,061, funded from the contingency account.	3,061
TPC24-1.5	Citizens RSA Te Puke ANZAC Committee – to contribute towards catering and other operating expenses for the annual Te Puke Civic ANZAC Day Commemoration.	1,000
TPC24-4.12	Approve $2,945 from the Te Puke Community Board Contingency Account, for Member N Chauhan to attend the 2024 Local Government New Zealand Conference. (Spent = $2,322)	623
TPC24 – 3.9	Approve the grant application from the Made in Te Puke Trust for $2,258.00, to cover the cost of Waste Watchers LTD for the Te Kete Matariki 2024. This grant will be funded from the Te Puke Community Board Grants Account	2,258
TPC24-1.3	Approve the amount of $2,300.00 from the Te Puke Community Board contingency account to fund the painting of a mural on the Rangiuru Sports Club fence line, to be done by Millie Olive Pidwell.	2,300
TPC24-3.9	Approve the grant application from Tauranga and Western Bay Indian Association Inc for $1,500 from the Te Puke Community Board grant account to help cover the cost of the Teej Musical Evening	1,500
TPC24-5.15	Approve up to $7,000 from the contingency account for new main street event flags. (Spent = $6,012)	988
TPC25-1.8	Approves the grant application from the Citizens RSA Te Puke ANZAC Committee for $1,000, to contribute towards catering and other operational expenses for the Te Puke ANZAC Day Service.	1,000
	2024/25 Total operational commitments	21,686

2024/25 Reserve analysis:

Resolution	Description	$ (Payments made)
	2024/25 Opening balance	163,764
TPC24-3.2	Disc Golf Course at Donovan Park	(1,811)
TPC24-1.3	Installation of a shade sail for the Te Puke Dog Park	(1,270)
	2024/25 Closing Reserve balance before commitments	160,682

Remaining commitments from Te Puke Community Board Reserve Account

Resolution	Description	$ (Remaining funds)
	2024/25 Closing balance before committed expenditure	160,682
TP22-4.5	Approve up to $30,000 to be paid from Te Puke Community Board Reserve Account for costs relating to the Te Puke Story Boards Project.	(30,000)
TP22-4.6	Approve up to $20,000 to be paid from the Te Puke Community Board Reserve Account for costs relating to the new dog park at Laurence Oliver Park, Te Puke.	(20,000)
TPC24-1.3	Approve the amount of $1,550.00 from the Te Puke Community Board reserves account to put towards the cost of the installation of a shade sail for the Te Puke Dog Park, with an upgraded design being sought to include steel poles. (Spent $1,270.42)	(280)
TPC25-1.3	Approves a budget of up to $10,000 for development of a wider concept plan for McLoughlin Park to include the various uses and possible facilities noted at the Community Board meeting, and that the concept plan be presented back to the next Community Board meeting on 03 April 2025.	(10,000)
TPC25-1.5	Approves a budget of $130.00 from the Reserves Account for the purchase and installation of a Liquor Ban Sign that will be installed outside the Te Puke War Memorial Hall.	(130)
TPC25-1.10	That the Te Puke Community Board approves up to $200 to provide a floral arrangement for the ANZAC Day Service, to be paid from the Te Puke Community Board Reserves Account.	(200)
	2024/25 Closing balance after the committed expenditure	100,072

Attachments

1. Te Puke Community Board - Financial Report February 2025 ⇩

2. Te Puke Community Board - Roading Current Account February 2025 ⇩

Chairperson	Kassie Ellis
Deputy Chairperson	Dale Snell
Members	Karen Summerhays Neena Chauhan Cr Grant Dally Cr Andy Wichers
Quorum	3
Frequency	Eight weekly / Workshops as required

Interested/Affected Parties	Completed/Planned Engagement/Consultation/Communication
Made in Te Puke Trust (Charitable Trust)	The applicant will be advised of the outcome of their respective Grant Application.	Planned