Latest news with #CluthaDistrictCouncil
Otago Daily Times
23-05-2025
- Otago Daily Times
Council urging residents to report illegal rubbish dumping
All residents and ratepayers are encouraged to report people engaged in illegal, disrespectful and costly fly-tipping. PHOTO: SUPPLIED The Clutha District Council is urging residents to take a stand against a growing problem of illegal rubbish dumping, or "fly-tipping", across the district. Fly-tipping, the unlawful disposal of waste on public or private property without consent, is a direct breach of the Litter Act 1979. The council has reported a concerning rise in both the number and volume of such incidents and is calling on the community to help identify offenders and curb this "disgraceful" behaviour. "This kind of behaviour is highly disappointing, disrespectful and will not be tolerated," a council spokesperson said. "It's a reproach to our district and an affront to the pride we take in our communities and environment." Those caught illegally dumping rubbish can face infringement notices or, in more serious or malicious cases, prosecution through the district court. A recent offender was fined $400 after being reported for dumping domestic and garden waste at several locations. Fly-tipping is not just an eyesore — it carries a significant financial burden. Clean-up operations, often requiring safety precautions, contractor involvement and traffic management, are funded by ratepayers and the council has stressed the cost is entirely avoidable and caused by a selfish few. The spokesperson pointed out the example set by the Enviroschools programme — schools engaged in active environmentalism where students take direct responsibility for roadside rubbish collections and community cleanups. "There is no excuse for this behaviour ... [It's] disgraceful that while our children are showing leadership in caring for their environment, others are undermining their efforts through laziness and thoughtlessness. "We are a modern, privileged community with well-established waste disposal systems ... We must act with integrity and preserve our clean, green spaces for future generations." Residents were encouraged to report fly-tipping through the Antenno app, the council website, email, or by calling the council. Reports should include as much detail as possible, including photos, videos, or vehicle licence plates, while ensuring personal safety. The council is committed to education and enforcement to drive positive change and is counting on community support to stop illegal dumping in its tracks.
Otago Daily Times
21-05-2025
- General
- Otago Daily Times
Works a testament to the community
Small-town Heriot is about to add new art to its growing range of public assets. Thanks to a dedicated group of locals, the old West Otago settlement's public domain and tennis courts are undergoing a significant transformation, proving community spirit and teamwork makes big things can happen — even in the smallest places. What started as a simple cleanup project has grown into a $25,000 community-led upgrade that has brought together residents, local businesses, the Lions Club, and Clutha District Council. The Heriot Domain upgrade, which began in early 2024, has already delivered a new tennis net, a modern, height-adjustable basketball hoop, a concrete rebound wall for ball sports, and picnic facilities. Regular maintenance such as lawn mowing and painting has also helped keep the site prim and lively. The project has been funded in part by the West Otago Community Board, which approved $12,765 from the Our Place West Otago fund in April. Of that, about $12,700 has already been spent. The improvements are already paying off. The courts are being regularly used by local families and sports enthusiasts, and more work is scheduled for this autumn, including a second tennis net, seating, and court line painting. A colourful new addition is also on the way. Local artist Kath Garret is creating a mural featuring a native forest and bird scene, backed by a $1500 grant from the council. Community group spokeswoman Cindy Harliwich says the project has been a real team effort. "A local person suggested we clean up the old tennis court and that led to a wider conversation about making it more multi-use," she said. "There are playgrounds for young children ... we wanted more for older kids." Mrs Harliwich credits the strong community involvement for the project's success. "Everyone's chipped in, whether it's been their time, expertise, or equipment. "Businesses like Sheds and Barns donated work and materials just because they're part of the community." She also praised the support from the council and its local representatives. "They've kept us on track and always asked what we need. "It really shows how much can happen when people care about where they live." With several funding options still available, including the Creative Communities Fund and remaining council reserves, Heriot may see even more upgrades soon. "This is a great example of the community coming together and using the available resources the way they're intended," West Otago Ward Cr John Herbert said. "Full credit to the council for their support ... [but] you've got to have individuals in the community like Cindy and Warren Harliwich to help drive it. "They and others have done that and they've all done a great job."
Otago Daily Times
21-05-2025
- Business
- Otago Daily Times
Frustration vented at ‘southern water' meeting
Clutha Mayor Bryan Cadogan. Photo: Richard Davison Residents and officials alike voiced their frustration with the "untenable" financial pressures expected to arise from the government's Local Water Done Well programme, at a public meeting in Balclutha last night. The Clutha District Council is holding three meetings across the district this week as part of public consultation on the National government's replacement for Three Waters. The meetings - in Milton on Monday, Balclutha yesterday and tonight in Tapanui - are taking place against the backdrop of Clutha's proposal to join Central Otago, Gore and Waitaki in a new "Southern Water Done Well" group. Consultation documents show the four councils collectively accruing $598 million of water infrastructure debt by 2034, as they spend $760 million on providing improved water services in line with more stringent government regulations. Clutha Mayor Bryan Cadogan said the proposal to join forces with neighbouring councils was the "least bad" solution, that could lead to modest efficiencies and savings for ratepayers. "Going alone consigns communities to further financial hardship. The almost decade-long chops and changes to these reforms have only weakened councils and cost ratepayers. It's imperative that this matter is brought to a head," he said. Audience members questioned both whether the level of anticipated debt was necessary or possibly underestimated. Mr Cadogan said the projected debt had been reduced recently, due to government changes to wastewater requirements, but remained necessary as it spread the rates burden for residents. Some expressed doubt whether joining forces with other councils would in fact reduce rates, citing the Auckland "supercity" amalgamation, which they said had failed to do so. Council staff said the proposal was expected to lead to reductions in bureaucracy, and existing debt would be ring-fenced within any new entity. These measures should lead to cost savings, and no unanticipated debt increase. The group's preferred option is to form a jointly-owned council controlled organisation (CCO). Other options include a stand-alone CCO, or an in-house business unit. Mr Cadogan warned these options could consign Clutha to insolvency during the next decade, due to mounting infrastructure debt. Submissions close on June 6, followed by hearings in Balclutha on June 18. The government will assess the council's resulting Water Services Delivery Plan and provide feedback from December. If approved, a jointly-owned CCO would begin operation in July, 2027. A final public meeting takes place at the West Otago Community Centre, Tapanui, at 6.30pm today.
Otago Daily Times
20-05-2025
- Business
- Otago Daily Times
Views heard at ‘southern water' meeting
Bryan Cadogan. Photo: Richard Davison Residents and officials alike voiced their frustration with the "untenable" financial pressures expected to arise from the government's Local Water Done Well programme, at a public meeting in Balclutha last night. The Clutha District Council is holding three meetings across the district this week as part of public consultation on the National government's replacement for Three Waters. The meetings — in Milton on Monday, Balclutha yesterday and tonight in Tapanui — are taking place against the backdrop of Clutha's proposal to join Central Otago, Gore and Waitaki in a new "Southern Water Done Well" group. Consultation documents show the four councils collectively accruing $598 million of water infrastructure debt by 2034, as they spend $760 million on providing improved water services in line with more stringent government regulations. Clutha Mayor Bryan Cadogan said the proposal to join forces with neighbouring councils was the "least bad" solution, that could lead to modest efficiencies and savings for ratepayers. "Going alone consigns communities to further financial hardship. The almost decade-long chops and changes to these reforms have only weakened councils and cost ratepayers. It's imperative that this matter is brought to a head," he said. Audience members questioned both whether the level of anticipated debt was necessary or possibly underestimated. Mr Cadogan said the projected debt had been reduced recently, due to government changes to wastewater requirements, but remained necessary as it spread the rates burden for residents. Some expressed doubt whether joining forces with other councils would in fact reduce rates, citing the Auckland "supercity" amalgamation, which they said had failed to do so. Council staff said the proposal was expected to lead to reductions in bureaucracy, and existing debt would be ring-fenced within any new entity. These measures should lead to cost savings, and no unanticipated debt increase. The group's preferred option is to form a jointly-owned council controlled organisation (CCO). Other options include a stand-alone CCO, or an in-house business unit. Mr Cadogan warned these options could consign Clutha to insolvency during the next decade, due to mounting infrastructure debt. Submissions close on June 6, followed by hearings in Balclutha on June 18. The government will assess the council's resulting Water Services Delivery Plan and provide feedback from December. If approved, a jointly-owned CCO would begin operation in July, 2027. A final public meeting takes place at the West Otago Community Centre, Tapanui, at 6.30pm today.
Otago Daily Times
13-05-2025
- Politics
- Otago Daily Times
‘Reflection' of cost tensions
Bryan Cadogan. PHOTO: ODT FILES. Low resident satisfaction in a recent council survey is a reflection of escalating cost tensions, the Clutha district's mayor says. The Clutha District Council released its annual resident survey this week, which it has been running since 2013. Last year, satisfaction in the council plummeted and, despite a slight increase in the headline figure for overall council performance in the latest survey, Clutha Mayor Bryan Cadogan said work remained to be done. "This will be the last time I'm in the mayoral hot seat to receive the survey results. It's a very trying time currently with the vice that Three Waters has us in, and these results are a clear reflection of that," he said. He said he and councillors were "as frustrated" as all ratepayers by rapidly escalating rates. Some Clutha ratepayers are facing 25%-plus rises this year. "It's a ridiculous situation all councils have been put in [by central government]. But we have to address the issues in front of us, and we continue to look for solutions and savings every day, by going through everything with a fine-tooth comb." Satisfaction in decision-making, planning and leadership of elected members was up from 47% to 53%, and overall satisfaction in the council also up, from 55% to 60%. In contrast to the dissatisfaction with elected members, council staff received a glowing report. Satisfaction with delivery of "quality of life" services uniformly topped 90%. Among the highest performers were libraries (97%); Balclutha Pool (95%); community centres and halls (95%); and parks and reserves (94%). Mr Cadogan said residents had an opportunity to contribute to the future of water decision-making at present. Local Water Done Well submissions are open until June 6. • Local Water Done Well consultation meetings take place next week at Milton Coronation Hall on Monday; TPŌMA Balclutha on Tuesday; and West Otago Community Centre, Tapanui on Wednesday (all 6.30pm).
