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The Chair, HBRC, Cr Rex Graham introduced
the item, highlighting discussions on significant activities across Council.
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Further highlights of discussions at the
meeting raised were reafforestation, Farm practices, Planting Programmes,
Partnership with Ngāti
Kahungunu, discussions with Hawke’s Bay Prison, the Kahutia Accord and
selling of Council’s carbon credits, Napier Port, new staff
appointments and Rates Invoices. Discussions traversed:
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The Chair, HBRC reported that Council are
reviewing farming practises to determine the current work and practises being
done are sustainable and sensible.
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Cr Graham reiterated the importance of reafforestation
as erosion is very significant in the region which has a direct impact on
waterways and fisheries.
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The Council has planted over 200,000 of native
trees during winter through the Planting Programmes. The Chair
acknowledged the hard work of communities and Council staff whom assisted
during this time.
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Council currently endeavouring a partnership
with Ngati Kahungunu Iwi Incorporated and are progressing. NKII are
very aggressive in seeking in securing land to plant up. Two properties have
already been planted.
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Had discussions with Hawke’s Bay Prison
and were impressed with what inmates had achieved with little capital.
HBRC are committed to being part of this process to further the establishment
of nurseries to provide for future planting projects. Central
Government has committed $2 million to assist with this project.
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An update on the Kahutia Accord project were
given where land has been identified for planting next winter. $30 million
has been approved through the Long Term Plan and hope to achieve another $30
million from Government to invest in riparian planting projects.
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Up to $100,000 is being considered by Council
for commercial planting and in partnership with taiwhenua and NKII.
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Due to Hawke’s Bay’s vibrant
growing economy, it is deemed necessary to expand the Port operations to
build a new wharf. Council currently seeking opportunities to fund this
project.
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Cr Rex Graham and CEO, James Palmer had
several discussions and meetings with Port Staff, Management and Unions to
discuss the future of the Port.
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The Port Consultation documents were
distributed to letter boxes during this week.
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Council’s preference is to keep 55% of
shares and offer 45% to the market.
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Acknowledgement were given for Pieri
Munro’s appointment to the Council and the important role he will be
playing and his input in the Council’s decision making processes.
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Rates invoices has been posted recently
– the overall revenue of the Council will increase to around $7 million
for 2018.
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Council increased its staff capability across
the organisation, with 40 new staff appointments, will enhance and fast track
projects within areas such non-compliance, resource consents, planning and
pollution control/issues.
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HBRC acknowledged the concerns raised by the
communities around the quality of the environment and will continue to build
relationships and are hopeful for more opportunities and ideas within the
catchment areas.
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