Horizons Long-term Plan submissions to be heard

Submissions for Horizons Regional Council’s Long-term Plan have closed with hearings taking place over three days from 22-24 May in both Palmerston North and Whanganui.

Horizons chair Bruce Gordon says this year Horizons received an exceptional amount of submissions, with 487 official submissions, and 16 late. All of which are available for the public to view on Horizons’ website.

“From the submissions received, 86 are being spoken to. This enables Council the opportunity to hear from community members and ask questions, providing a clear understanding of their views.”

“We’re looking forward to hearing our resident’s thoughts, as they help plan for the next 10 years,” says Mr Gordon.

A large number of this year’s submissions are a result of the river management scheme public meetings that were held across the region. These meetings varied from introducing new schemes, to socialising flood protection options.

There were also a considerable number of submissions on the varying rate increases, the topic of changing our region’s and council’s name, the option of having a facilities fund, and expenditure in regards to core business.

The first two days of hearings on 22 and 23 May will be held from 9am in Horizons’ Regional House on Victoria Avenue, Palmerston North.

The third day of hearings on 24 May will be held from 9.30am, in the Council Chambers of Whanganui District Council, 101 Guyton Street, Whanganui.

Submissions are available online as part of each hearing agenda at www.horizons.govt.nz/calendar.