2011-2012 Annual Report - Full Version - PDF - Palmerston North ...

Overview Year in ReviewLocal GovernmentLocal government has largely determined theservices required by the community in additionto those required by law and delivered on these.Central Government has announced its intentionto commence a “Better Local Government” reformthat has the potential to change the purpose oflocal government, how it operates and servicesprovided. Council is evaluating these proposals,the effect on how we operate with the communityand have submitted our opinions on them toCentral Government.Rugby World CupTwo 2011 Rugby World Cup games weresuccessfully held in Palmerston North. The RugbyWorld Cup provided a focal point for the communitywith many local organisations providing supportfor the associated festivities. As expected theeconomic benefit to the City was limited. The NZRugby Museum moved into expanded exhibitionareas in Te Manawa and experienced an increase invisitor numbers during the world cup period.Projects on the GoThere have been a number of other key projectsconsidered or undertaken during the year, andwe’d like to update you on these:Strategic Roading and Bridging – Council haswithdrawn funding of a second bridge over theManawatū River from the next 10 Year Plan asthe traffic level increase required to meet NZTAfunding guidelines would be beyond the 10 yearperiod covered. Further deliberation by Counciland discussion with other affected organisationswill now be required.New Bus Terminal – with a number of concernsraised during the public consultation phaseCouncil has deferred construction of a new busterminal. We have sought further submissionsto ensure that the ultimate location is the mostappropriate and acceptable to all those affected.Partly this will await a “first principles” review ofthe existing service by Horizons Regional Council,who manages the urban bus service contract, todetermine future requirements. Construction hasbeen scheduled for the 2014/15 year.Mobile library replacement – previously Councilhad a preference that the replacement wouldbe a battery electric vehicle. Tenders receivedevidenced that this option would be financiallyexpensive and given the cost-benefit of the optionsCouncil has now determined to remain with adiesel powered vehicle. This has been ordered andexpected in the next year.Youth library, youth café – the Youth Space hashad a successful year adding to the resources ofthe City.Finally, our sincere thanks to all Councillorsand staff for their contributions during the yeartowards the growth and development of our city.Jono NaylorMayor26 September 2012Chief Executive Paddy Clifford andMayor Jono Naylor in The Square.Image by Tracey Marshall, Print Synergy,Palmerston North City Council.Paddy CliffordChief Executive26 September 20126Discoloured Water – work has continuedreplacing cast iron water main pipes and thenumber of complaints about discoloured waterhas continued to drop.Victoria Esplanade, relocation of depot toFitzherbert Park – this project is well underwaywith completion expected early in the newfinancial year.Palmerston North City Council Annual Report 2011/12