HWM Sheryl Mai: Statement on Referendum results

The people have spoken through a democratic process.

Many residents will be elated at the outcome, and many may be disappointed. Whatever our initial feelings, it is now in the best interests of this District that we be united in embracing, engaging in and enjoying the most popular referendum choice.

I thank all those who took the time to record their preference. I now encourage you all to join with us as we incorporate the result into the 2015-2025 Council Long Term Plan.

Even though today’s votes have yet to be counted, it seems very clear that the winning result will be Option B – Hundertwasser Wairau Maori Arts Centre.

I am delighted to be part of the process of ‘colouring our city’, which begins now. Prosper Northland now have work to do finalising the details and completing their fundraising efforts.

Council’s capital contribution of $2.8million to this project has been budgeted for in the draft Long Term Plan and will be incorporated through the deliberations process next week.

In addition to this result, I think it is important we consider the many ideas from the Harbourside proposal which held great merit, and investigate how they may be captured in future Council projects.

Option B 13726

Option C 7876

Option A 5478

ENDS

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