The submissions on the 10 year budget closed on Monday. It will be interesting to see what the feedback says on supporting increases in rates and or motorway charges or a fuel tax in terms of transport.

The dog access survey is open until the 22nd of March and people should fill it out regardless of whether they have a dog or not. Dog access to beaches affects us all. You can find all consultations that are currently open at shapeauckland.co.nz I think there are also forms available at the library and the local board office.

The work is on track for the old library space, and we are still working around the operating model for this space which allows for existing opportunities and maximises the use of space and participation.

It’s been a big month for events. On island we’ve enjoyed Sculpture in the Gulf, the Onetangi Beach Races, the Wine Festival and Shakespeare in the courtyard. There was also a story event on Rotoroa. Off island Islanders have been able to attend the Lantern Festival, Pacifica and the Biennial Auckland Arts Festival. I particularly enjoyed White Night in town and if you haven’t had the opportunity to take the family to enjoy some art-focused activities there’s still family garden time from 10.30-12.30 both days this weekend. Sustainable Coastlines and Sea Week also had events running.

As a special treat Rocky Bay Hall invited the Local Board to afternoon tea and it was lovely to meet people who are so passionate and driving projects in their community.

The Poetry Festival is on from 11-3 this Saturday in the artworks amphitheatre which should be a lovely outdoor event.

Transport we’re still working through a few initiatives. I think we’re all aware that Matiatia needs some attention so we continue to flag these for Auckland Transport.

I went to an economic development cluster meeting a couple of weeks ago and there seems to be some recognition that there could be more support for local business. We are currently working with ATEED and community development to develop a series of talks that would be of interest to smaller businesses looking to consolidate or improve their services.

In terms of waste we’re having the first baby steps towards managing our own waste again, with the solid waste team working through how we can transfer responsibilities locally. The start of this is establishing a process for the inorganic waste collection from August.

Have a great month.
Nga Mihi

Shirin Brown