19 May 2022
Media: Local Democracy Reporter
Topic: Anonymous letter drop in Owhata regarding reserve proposal
Enquiry
Further to the enquiry yesterday regarding an anonymous letter drop in Ōwhata relating to the reserves proposal, reporter asked for Council to clarify procedure for deciding if a forum is to be held in public-excluded.
Response
From DCE District Leadership and Democracy, Oonagh Hopkins.
“Council decide as part of their induction at the beginning of each term how they will work to set direction and guide policy development. Forums have been agreed to by the Council as the most productive way to do this, providing opportunities to traverse a range of topics freely which then provides the frameworks for staff and future conversations with the community.”
From Mayor, Steve Chadwick (in response to the reporter’s enquiry yesterday):
“Council will be considering this proposal when we meet next Thursday. Community consultation is recommended and no decisions have been made yet.
“I’d strongly encourage residents to seek accurate and up to date information about what is proposed, and why, via the Rotorua Lakes Council website.
“Workshops and forums enable elected members to gain in-depth understanding about various issues and challenges. What emerges from these sessions, including the information and direction provided, becomes public via formal meetings where proposals are presented and decisions are made following further discussion and debate.”