15 February 2006

Passion for Waitakere Ward’s ‘special character’

Three options mooted for the city’s future representation were scrutinised by members of the Waitakere Ward at a well attended meeting in Waiatarua last night.

A straw poll showed that the majority of the 60 Waitakere Ward residents present did not support Option One – the option based on population, integrated land use, transport and landscape.

There was strong support for the Waitakere Ranges Heritage Area to be considered as an entity and for the name ‘Waitakere Ward’ to be retained.

Residents spoke passionately about retaining the area’s special character.

Meeting Chairperson Councillor Janet Clews stressed that it is the “validity and strength of the arguments in submissions that count towards the final decision – not the number received.

“Have faith in the process and participate.”

Councillor Clews says the current Act places stringent controls on the 10 per cent population variable with which the City must comply. She told the meeting that the Council will have to “work the numbers to meet the rules” where there are changes but it will be impossible to satisfy everyone.

Public meetings

Henderson Ward: Friday 17 February, 7pm, Te Atatu South Community Centre
Massey Ward: Thursday 16 February, 7pm, Massey and Birdwood Settlers Hall.
New Lynn Ward: Tuesday 21 February, 7pm, New Lynn Community Centre, Main Hall.

ENDS

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