Council briefs: Council considers economic development

Nicole Mathewson Reporter from Northern Outlook

By David Hill, local democracy reporter

Residents are being encouraged to have their say on the Waimakariri district’s economic development.

Councillors adopted the draft Waimakariri Economic Development Strategy for public engagement at a council meeting last week.

It will go out for consultation later this month.

Mayor Dan Gordon said the existing economic development strategy was adopted in 2013 and helped to guide the district through its earthquake recovery.

‘‘This draft strategy reflects the future growth of our district.’’

The strategy considered economic development, climate change, emissions reduction, urban development and transport growth.

■ Councillors have adopted the new Waimakariri Housing Policy 2023.

The council’s property portfolio working group will now work out how to best utilise the policy for the district, Gordon said.

That will include deciding whether to partner with the private or public sector to create quality, affordable social housing in Waimakariri.

■ The Waimakariri District Council is seeking government funding to add to its older person’s housing portfolio.

Councillors have backed a proposal from staff to apply for funding from the Ministry of Housing and Urban Development’s affordable housing fund.

The council will seek $3.5 to $4 million, or 50% funding towards a proposed 20 unit housing development on council owned land, with the option of scaling up to 40 units.

The remaining 50% of the proposed $7 million to $8m development would be loan funded and paid back from rental income.

‘‘The intention is that this is not funded by ratepayers,’’ Gordon said.

‘‘The council will still be able to charge affordable rents for the new housing and has a long waiting list and latent demand for additional elderly person housing units.’’

If the funding application is successful, the site and investment options will be considered as part of the 2024-34 long-term plan process.

■ The council has increased its budget for an upgrade of Rangiora’s River Rd.

Councillors have approved an additional budget of $175,000 to allow for the full upgrade of the road.

Work is being completed on the south side of River Rd from Ashley Street to Cones Rd.

‘‘Council felt it was important to do this upgrade properly,’’ Gordon said.

‘‘This is a well utilised area by residents and it is where the Park and Ride (commuter bus service) is situated.’’

This project is estimated to cost $700,000.

■ Councillors have adopted an amended dog control bylaw.

Council staff are also exploring ways to provide after hours access to the pound for people unable to collect their dogs during normal operating hours.

■ Public interest journalism funded through New Zealand on Air.