In 2021 we consulted widely on our plans for the next 10 years (our Long Term Plan). On the years 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.
As part of our Annual Plan, we think it's important to share an update on the progress we've made in the last 12 months.
Connecting with the community
Over the last year we consulted on a wide range of issues – including Pride of Plan (the future vision for our town centres), Thomas Park Playground, District Plan changes, gambling and alcohol in our community, Easter trading and more.
We especially value how many people actively connect with Council to help shape their community - here is a snapshot of how the community got involved over the last 12 months:
Keeping things ticking
Over the last year we've continued to deliver all our existing services to the same standard - running the pools, running the libraries, mowing the parks, maintaining the roads, treating your drinking water, processing resource and building consents, providing community grants (and much more).
We've also continued to maintain and renew our assets to ensure our community continues to have these vital services for years to come. Some examples of this include:
Major projects over the last 15 months (since Jan 2022)
Thomas Park
Thomas Park
We sought ideas and input from the Morrinsville community for the new playground at Thomas Park. Nearly 800 people took part - and we delivered an amazing new playground and toilet block
Te Aroha Spa
Te Aroha Spa
We committed to building an $18.9 million spa in Te Aroha if the business case stacks up. A concept has been developed and we are now working on the investment case
Changes to kerbside collections
Kerbside changes
In 2021 we consulted on changing our kerbside collection service to divert more waste from landfill. During 2022 we went through a comprehensive tender process and awarded a new contract to commence in September 2023.
Morrinsville Water
Te Aroha Boat Ramp
Te Aroha Boat Ramp
We completed a big upgrade on the Te Aroha boat ramp area, including sealing the parking areas, improving the reserve, and improving access to the dump station
Resource Recovery Centres
Resource Recovery Centres
Early planning/investigations started for developing Resource Recovery Centres
Revitalising our town centres
Revitalising our town centres
Pride of Place kicked off in Matamata in January 2022, followed by Morrinsville mid-year, and Te Aroha is currently underway.
Lockerbie Playground
Lockerbie Playground
We teamed up with the Lockerbie Developers to create a fantastic new playground in the northern part of Morrinsville
Te Aroha Industrial Land
Te Aroha Industrial Land
We jumped on an opportunity to purchase land on the outskirts of Te Aroha to investigate for future industrial land
Morrinsville Rec Master Plan
Morrinsville Rec Master Plan
We worked alongside the Morrinsville community to develop their vision for the Morrinsville Recreations Grounds into a Master Plan for the site
Walking & cycling connections
Walking & cycling connections
We committed to a 'slow but steady' approach to improving walking and cycling connections across the district, and have been acquiring land to support this.
Dog parks
Dog Parks
You told us you wanted dogs parks in Matamata and Te Aroha - so we reviewed the Dog Control Bylaw and created off leash areas in both towns.