From road safety and resource consents, to pipes, public pools and puppy adoption – the full breadth and depth of Council’s services were on display at Saturday’s Your Neighbourhood event.
Held at Nawton’s Ellicott Park in partnership with the Western Community Centre, the event was a chance for the community to learn about what Hamilton City Council does, ask questions directly to staff and elected members, and share their thoughts and feedback.
Hamilton Mayor Paula Southgate said the weekend’s event was particularly valuable, due to it taking place during Council’s 2024-34 Long-Term Plan consultation period.
“It was fantastic to engage with the community directly and hear their views on the Council’s proposed 10-year Long-Term Plan. I’ve heard loud and clear that the proposed 19.9% rates rise is unpalatable and I am committed to listening to the community and working with staff on what further we can cut from the budget to bring this number down,” she said.
“I have found it valuable to have conversations out in the community, alongside colleagues. We want to talk with as many Hamiltonians as possible, so please let us know if a group or community would like us to visit.”
The public can formally provide their feedback to help guide the Long-Term Plan decisions through the Council website at hamilton.govt.nz/futurehamilton, or by going to their local library.
As well as valuable conversations, there was also plenty of fun on offer at the Your Neighbourhood event – with everything from live music and cultural performances, to face painting, food trucks and games and activities.
Trish Terry from Western Community Centre said the event attracted a great turnout from the Nawton community.
“It was awesome to see the diverse departments of Council out connecting with our community. We look forward to the next one,” she said.