Mayor receives assurances from Housing NZ

Assurances that work will start in March on upgrading vacant  properties that have been boarded up in Lower Hutt has been given to me by Housing New Zealand.

I sought a meeting with Housing New Zealand officers to represent the views of residents and neighbours of the vacant houses who were deeply concerned.

One city street has 23 vacant houses and neighbours, who are also fearful of vandals, consider them an eyesore.

Housing New Zealand has lodged applications for building consents to carry out maintenance and upgrading of at least 13 buildings to get things under way.

They have also cut overgrown grass and removed rubbish and increased security.  I am hoping this will soothe the anxiety expressed by neighbours

This is a positive response – it shows Housing New Zealand is listening to the affected neighbours in addressing these issues,” he says.

Housing New Zealand has undertaken to meet with myself and council officers on a regular basis to monitor progress on managing the maintenance and upgrades of the existing properties

Housing New Zealand has a large portfolio of residential properties and we will also work with them on a long term strategy for the future of affordable housing in the city as part of our urban growth strategy for Lower Hutt.

I have also informed the Minister of Housing, the Hon Phil Heatley, of our meeting and my intention to protect the interests of our residents.

Volunteers core of the community

Volunteers form the core of the community and the Petone Community Board has done a good job in selecting 35 individuals from local sports and community groups to be acknowledged as volunteers of the year.

Among them is the outstanding contribution of Bernie Fraser of the Randwick Archery Club together with Vic Mawson and Des Tarring of the Koizumo Kwai Judo Club.

Each person has given more than 50 years to their respective organisations. Bernie Fraser, 74, is Patron of the New Zealand Archery Association and continues to take an active role in coaching. Des is 87 years old and president of his club and Vic, 92, is a founding member.

They are truly inspirational. Petone Community Board member Tui Lewis coordinated the awards and has done a good job.

City starts New Year in strong position

Your Hutt City Council is starting 2013 in a very strong position.

My goals as Mayor for the year include:

·         Keeping Hutt City Council debt under control

·         Focusing on ensuring the average rates for the year are kept as low as possible

·         Maintaining the programme of investment in infrastructure for the city, and

·         Listening to the needs of the community particularly in regard to proposals for changes to local government governance.

On a personal level, I will continue to work hard for ratepayers and residents in Lower Hutt. And, later in the year, I will be encouraging residents to vote in the October local government elections.

I will also be seeking to develop a better work-life balance.