Last year we consulted widely on our plans for the next 10 years (our Long Term Plan).
In between Long Term Plans, we produce an Annual Plan, where we check progress against what we set out to do in the Long Term Plan, and make any changes or additions for the year ahead. We've already shared a look back at the last 12 months - now here's an update on what we're planning for the year ahead:
Keeping things ticking
This Annual Plan is largely 'business as usual' - we've budgeted to continue to deliver the same services we currently offer, to the same standard.
That means we'll continue to open the pools, run the libraries, mow the parks, maintain the roads, treat your drinking water, process resource and building consents, provide community grants (and much more) for the next year. You can read more about what we've committed to do in Section 6 of the Long Term Plan: Ā Mātou Mahi I What We Do
And continuing to make improvements
We're also going to continue making steady improvements around the district.
We have an annual schedule of 'renewals' to make sure we continue to upgrade our roads, footpaths, buildings, pipes and other assets. This is a constant cycle to make sure our assets are well managed for both current and future generations. Examples of assets we're planning to upgrade or improve this year include the Thomas Park toilets (Morrinsville), parts of the Herries Park playground, structures (such as stairs, handrails and bridges) on some of our walking tracks, and shade at Swim Zone Te Aroha.
We also plan ahead to ensure we're catering for growth - both growth that's already occuring, and projected growth for the next 30 years. Examples of planned projects to accomodate growth this year include capacity improvements to the sewer in Matamata, additional water supply in Morrinsville (more info on this below), and providing for extra road width in new subdivisions to ensure they'll create good links in the future.
We'll also continue to invest in delivering our digital strategy (making it easier for people to do their business with us online) and focus on building stronger relationships with the community through partnerships and co-design.
Major projects this year
Te Aroha Spa
Te Aroha Spa
We committed to building an $18.9 million spa in Te Aroha if the review of the business case stacks up. Design concepts are underway, with Councillors expected to make a final decision on whether or not to proceed at the end of this year.
Te Aroha Boat Ramp
Te Aroha Boat Ramp
The area known as the Boat Ramp in Te Aroha needs an upgrade to keep up with demand, so we're planning to deliver this upgrade in 2022/23.
Matamata pedestrian connectivity
Matamata pedestrian connectivity
There is $250,000 in this year's budget to improve walking and cycling connectivity within Matamata
Morrinsville Water
Morrinsville water
We have a new bore in place and draft resource consent to treat and supply additional water for Morrinsville. Design of the Water Treatment Plant is under way, with construction planned for 2022/23.
Changes to kerbside collections
Kerbside changes
We're planning an improved kerbside collection service from when the current contract ends in 2023. We expect to award a contract for this in August 2022.
Walking & cycling connections
Walking & cycling connections
We committed to a 'slow but steady' approach to improving walking and cycling connections across the district, and plan to continue acquiring land to support this.
Revitalising our town centres
Revitalising our town centres
This project, known as Pride of Place, is well under way in Matamata, and will kick off in Morrinsville shortly, followed by Te Aroha in early 2023.
Resource recovery centres
We're still planning to create resource recovery centres in Matamata (in 2023/24) and Morrinsville (in 2024/25). Planning for these is currently underway and will continue this year.
Morrinsville Rec Master Plan
Morrinsville Rec Master Plan
We've been working with the Morrinsville community on a Master Plan for the Recreations Grounds. We've got $250k in this year's budget to start implementing the plan.
Swim Zone Matamata roof
Swim Zone Matamata roof
Last year we removed the roof and structure from Swim Zone Matamata's indoor pool after finding out it was earthquake prone. We're now working with a user group to find a temporary roof solution.
Thomas Park Playground
Thomas Park Playground
The Thomas Park Playground is due for renewal. We've been consulting on designs and aim to get a new park installed this year
We're also still working on...
There are also a number of projects that have ground work under way or are dependant on third parties (e.g. partners or funding). These projects haven't fallen off our radar, and may also get under way during 2022/23 if funding or 'people on the ground' help drive them forward. These include:
- The Te Aroha Bike Skills Park - in partnership with Te Aroha Mountain Bike Club
- Matamata Indoor Stadium - Council has committed $2 million of funding towards this stadium, with Matamata Futures fundraising for the balance.
- Improvements to dog parks - last year we made bylaw changes to designate land for dog parks in Matamata and Te Aroha. We are keen to work with community groups on improvements at these sites (e.g. fencing, seats etc)