6 April 2023
Media: Rotorua Daily Post
Topic: Damage at Fordlands reserve
Enquiry
I am working on a story about the destruction of the Fordlands park - Huia Lyons Reserve.
The local community centre is putting the youth services on hold as a result of it becoming "dangerous" with four abandoned cars on the grass on Monday, including one set on fire in broad daylight with explosions. They said the vandalism in the park has gotten worse in the last 6 months and the park is no longer safe for children.
As well as the cars, they say there is smashed glass everywhere, and its embedded into the grass meaning it isn't a simple task to clean. There is also "disgusting" rubbish everywhere.
- Has the council been made aware that the park is constantly vandalised and cars abandoned and set on fire in there?
- What is the council's response to hearing that the community youth group is being stripped until further notice as a result of the destruction of the park?
- What is the extent of the damage to the park?
- Will the council be cleaning the park?
- What is the council able to do to help protect this park and keep it safe for the community?
- Does the council believe the park is safe for children at the moment?
Response
From DCE Community Wellbeing Anaru Pewhairangi:
Three vehicles were discovered abandoned in the Fordlands’ area Tuesday (April 4). One in Pullar Park and two in Wrigley Road Reserve.
Council was notified by a contractor and a staff member investigated and found, on arrival, children smashing the vehicles and spreading glass across the reserve. The area was taped off and a tow truck was organised to remove the vehicles, which was done yesterday (April 5). Infracore staff have this morning (April 6) cleaned up remaining debris.
Another vehicle was found dumped at Wrigley Road Reserve today (6 April) and will also be removed.
It is very disappointing that the actions of some are having a negative impact on the community’s enjoyment of the reserve and on local youth programmes.
Council undertakes ongoing checks and maintenance to the playground and reserve to help ensure it is a safe space for the community and we are responsive to any issues brought to our attention.
Some time ago rocks were laid across the boundary between Wrigley Road Reserve and a vacant section to prevent vehicles getting onto the reserve. This has helped but it appears those responsible for dumping the vehicles have found another way in.
Note to reporter: RLC is aware of three vehicles that have been abandoned on RLC land. However, there are more that are on private property. Also note I have attached a link to Q&A on illegal dumping and fines that maybe helpful for your story. CLICK HERE.
______________________________________________________________________________________________________
Media: Local Democracy Reporter
Topic: Tarawera wastewater reticulation scheme
Enquiry
Is someone able to please advise for me the total cost of stage one for the Tarawera scheme? It was said at the meeting it would cost residents about $12,500 each (not factoring in subsidies) but what is this as a total figure?
And wanted to double check, the cost would be divided among 550 home owners, but only 450 are being connected. Is this allowing for a further future 100 homes to be connected?
If you could please get back to me as soon as possible that would be very much appreciated, thank you.
Additional query received:
I think we've found some clarity.
We understand the first stage connects 550, including provision for 100 new properties. The second stage connects 445 existing properties.
We also see in the agenda report the council has allowed $15m in its contract for the construction of stage one, including $1.34m contingency. Is that the total cost for stage one?
Response
From DCE Infrastructure and Environment Stavros Michael.
Based on the known costs of the project to-date which comprises the design cost (pro rata for Stage 1) + Stage 1 delivery cost less current subsidies of $8.0mil it is estimated to leave a net cost to local properties of around $12,500 (rounded).
The agreed procurement plan for Stage 2 (once completed) will define the net cost for each property for Stage 2, which has no more subsidies.
Then the combined Stage 1 plus Stage 2 costs will finalise the total net cost to each property for Council consideration prior to striking the capital cost rate for Tarawera.
The total cost of Stage 1 (including pro rata design) less subsidies is divided by 550.
It is correct that currently there are only around 450 properties currently.
The balance of 100 is provision for future connections as new houses are developed. Council will carry that cost until such time as owners of any new houses seek to connect to the mains.