Recognising MDC achievements
(Posted: July 21)
 AS this will be my last column for this term, I think it worthwhile to look back over the past three years and note some of council’s achievements during that time.
Undoubtedly, the major focus was the replacement of the long-serving and capable Rod Titcombe as our Chief Executive. This is always a difficult task for councils throughout the country and does not always meet with success.
However, the appointment of one of Rod’s team, Lorraine Vincent, has proved to be extremely successful and council did not miss a beat as the new appointee settled in. The process worked well, involved the whole council and supported by all.
Another achievement has been the renovation of the council building, instigated during Rod’s time. The end result provides better work spaces, a secure work environment and a much improved customer service and reception area.
It has allowed council to retain an exceptional staff and provide improved service to our ratepayers.
The recently completed report by Morrison Low on the ABC work with Palmerston North has enabled council to instigate constructive discussions with our community on the best form of governance for the region in the next 20-odd years.
This process will continue over the next 12 months or so before the two councils come to any firm conclusion on the future direction we should take. And while we favour the boundary change option, that may well change, depending on feedback the councils receive.
It is important to realise, however, that we must act in some way on this report as doing nothing is not an option.
The establishment of the Manawatu Community Trust to manage and own the council’s Community Housing has been successful and the fact that the trust is now making significant progress with the establishment of Feilding Health further points to the great contribution it will make to our district in the future.
The Civic Centre Trust continues to do a wonderful job of running the Civic Centre and proves, yet again, the benefit of community-appointed boards to our district.
Finally, the council has worked extremely hard to ensure that our storm water, wastewater and water schemes are up to scratch and that our roading is maintained at a high level. Much of this work is now near completion and has been budgeted for and funded.
One last thing: A great art sale organised by the Feilding and Districts Arts Society in the Palmerston North Convention Centre last weekend. Well done to all involved.
Ian McKelvie
Manawatu District Mayor |
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