Category: Monthly report

Monthly Board report: December 2012

Rachel Brown, Len Brown and Pippa Coom at the Sustainable City Showcase2012 in Review
This is my last report for 2012. Looking back over the year I think it has been characterised by the significant progress we have made as a Board on our projects and initiatives following an inaugural year of planning and figuring out how the new Super City structure fits together. It has also become noticeable this year that the role of the Board is far better understood by the community. I think we have become the go to people on a huge range of local issues.

Inevitably there have been challenges and frustrations but personally I have found 2012 to be hugely enjoyable and rewarding. I have particularly welcomed all the opportunities to learn from international experts, to meet the people we represent and to fully take part in civic life.   I feel very privileged to represent such a dynamic, interesting and diverse area at the centre of Auckland.

I very much appreciate the skills and passion that officers bring to their role that has enabled local board projects to be advanced and implemented quickly.  We still have lots to do but I think we are fortunate to have a great board team with excellent leadership that will ensure 2013 is a good one.

Board activities for the period 1 November – 1 December 2012
Transport

A number of meetings were held with Auckland Transport during November. These are covered in the Auckland Transport monthly report and included:

  • the Board’s greenways aspirations and potential locations for AT to fund on-street routes
  • Update on a public bike hire scheme for Auckland
  • Draft Regional Public Transport Plan
  • Location of the bus stop outside Ponsonby Central

Good for business seminar
Good For BusinessIn February this year I asked Auckland Transport to consider bringing international expert Rodney Tolley to Auckland to be the key note speaker at a seminar aimed at our business associations and their members. I would like to thank Auckland Transport for making it happen and their work in organising the “Good for Business” seminar in partnership with the Board that was held on 28 November at the offices of AECOM.
Dr Tolley spoke about the economic benefits of investing in walkability to an audience of over 60 including representatives of business associations from across Auckland
My presentation that concluded the seminar is attached (Attachment A).

Community Funding
I represented the Board a the Central Joint Funding Committee meeting on 9 November that decided the allocation of grants from the Accommodation Support Fund, Cultural Heritage Fund and Community Group Assistance Fund (round one). These funds are legacy Council funds that following a recent decision by the Regional Development and Operations Committee are going to be rolled over for a further year (2013/14).
The minutes of this meeting are available online.

Local Government
LGNZ Zone 1 meeting
I attended the Local Government New Zealand Zone 1 meeting in Whangerei on 16 November (at no cost to the Board).
The presentations covered:
–       Alcohol Reform Bill – Charlotte Connell Senior Advisor Ministry of Justice – update on the Bill and what the changes to the supply and sale alcohol regime is likely to mean for TA’s
–       Mayor’s taskforce for jobs, Jan Francis
–       Strategic Plan introduced by Malcolm Alexander, CEO LGNZ
–       TRAFINZ update from Karen Hay
I found Malcolm’s presentation to be particularly interesting because of the energy, leadership and skills he is bringing to local government. The new strategic work plan has specific actions to bring about a brand shift to LG with LGNZ’s aim to be the Strong voice for great local government.
Malcolm intends presenting the LGNZ strategic plan to local board members next year.

Local Government Act 2002 Amendment Bill
I was extremely disappointed that the Government passed the Local Government Act 2002 Amendment Bill on 28 November with the slimmest majority, with no mandate and no evidence what so ever that Councils are operating ineffectively and uneconomically because of the “four well-beings”
I agree with LGNZ’s President, Lawrence Yule assessment that in its drive to have councils move their focus away from the four well-beings, the Government has instead injected uncertainty into the law by increasing the scope for council decisions to be judicially reviewed.As Lawrence said on the day the Bill was passed “The lesson from this legislation is that processes that are not based on facts, principle and constructive dialogue between central and local government do not serve the public well.”

Building a Better Newmarket Seminar
I attended this one day seminar for members of the Newmarket Business Association and was invited to sit on the panel that concluded the day.
At the seminar Westfield New Zealand Director, Justin Lynch outlined plans for a proposed new retail development on the Dominion Motors/Levene Extreme/Farmers site which borders Mortimer Pass and Broadway. In addition to a proposed flagship 9,500 sqm Department store, 95 new specialty stores are planned, along with a six-screen cinema, gymnasium and 1,400 car additional parking spaces. Westfield is waiting for the right market conditions to commence the multi-million dollar complex.

NZTA Senior Urban Design Advisor, Jacque Bell presented on the draft master plan for the area under the Newmarket viaduct which provides for a mix of commercial and office space, active retail frontages, car parking buildings and multi-functional open space. Consultation is currently underway on the plans.

Other speakers included Dr Libby Weaver (building a better you), and Hon Stephen Joyce (the big picture)

Community empowerment and the strengthening of democracy
During November local board members had the opportunity to attend presentations by two international speakers on the related areas of participatory budgeting and building community capacity.

Giovanni Allegretti, an architect, planner and senior researcher at the Centre for Social Studies at Coimbra University (Portugal) spoke about the benefits of entrusting citizens to decide how to allocate Council budgets in his presentation on participatory budgeting.

The following week Jim Diers, who is internationally recognised for his work with communities, gave his presentation on the Power of Community and how to get people to cherish their government and strengthen citizen participation. He also gave examples of neighbourhood planning process and the value of community driven planning.

Support social enterprise A4 eInvite_Page_1Social Enterprise conference 26 November

The Social Enterprise conference was organised by the CDAC team with the support by the Waitematā Local Board, University of Auckland Business School, Mira Szászy Research Centre, and The Kitchen with the aim of supporting the sector, celebrating best practices and exploring initiatives to support social enterprises.

The conference included Pecha Kucha style presentations from a number of social enterprises based in the Waitemata Local Board area.

Key speakers included:

  • Di Jennings, Community Economic Development Trust
  • Nicky Benson, New Zealand Centre for Social Innovation
  • Andrew Hamilton, ICEHOUSE
  • Assoc. Prof. Manuka Henare University of Auckland Business School

The CDAC team are to be congratulated on successfully organising the conference.

My welcome on behalf of the Board is attached (Attachment B)

Local Board workshops and meetings

Attended during November:

  • Parks Renewals Programme – Workshop on 1 November
  • Community leases meeting 1 November
  • Meetings to finalise the Board’s Unitary Plan report on 1 November, 5 and 12  November
  • One to one engagement meetings on the Unitary Plan with key community groups. I attended the following:
    o   Westmere Heritage Projection Group on 1 November
    o   GLBA and Grey Lynn 2030 on 5 November
    o   Western Bays Community Group on 5 November
    o   Newmarket Business Association on 7 November
    o   Parnell Community Committee on 7 November
    o   NZ Historic Places Trust on 8 November
    o   Parnell Heritage on 12 November
  • Local Board workshop on 6 November (Thriving communities discussion document , Pioneers Women’s Hall redevelopment and Pt. Erin Pools)
  • Communications update on 6 November
  • Meeting on 7 November with Team Leader, Community Facilities to discuss Parnell Trust’s request for financial assistance
  • Meeting with Auckland Transport and Council officers to discuss the Board’s Greenways priorities on 7 November
  • Workshop with Auckland Transport on the Draft Regional Public Transport Plan to assist with preparing the Board’s submission on the plan
  • Meeting with Auckland Transport to discuss the options for the location and design of the bus stop outside Ponsonby Central on Ponsonby Road
  • Meeting with Julie Fairey, Community spokesperson,  Puketapapa Local Board
  • Central Joint Funding Committee meeting on 9 November
  • Waitemata Local Board business meeting at Graham Street on Tuesday 13 November in Parnell
  • Meeting with Auckland Transport to discuss portfolio processes
  • Introduction to the new reporters for the Central Leader and the Auckland City Harbour News on 15 November
  •  Meeting on 15 November to discuss the City Centre Noise Management Action Plan 2012-2015 and how Waitemata Local Board can respond in support of the latest Noise Report to the Unitary Plan submission process and what actions can be initiated going forward through the Noise Action Plan
  •  Waitemata Christmas event organisation in Western Park meeting on 15 November
  • Resource Recovery Centre workshop with transition town groups looking to support the development of a centre – hosting by Puketapapa Local Board on 15 November with Warren Snow
  • LGNZ Zone One meeting in Whangerei on 16 November
  • Meeting with the Central Relationship Managers to discuss options for dealing with applications for Facilities Partnership funding on 19 November
  • Financial information and support for Local Boards meeting prior to the Chair’s forum on 19 November (part attended for the Chair )
  • GLBA meeting on 20 November
  •  Local Board workshop on 20 November
  • Meeting with Auckland Transport to receive an update on the Public Bike Hire scheme  on 22 November
  • Meeting and site visit at Auckland Cathedral of the Holy Trinity on 22 November with Christopher Dempsey
  • Participatory Budgeting presentation by international guest, Giovanni Allegretti. on 23 November
  • Waipapa Stream project update on 23 November
  • Grey Lynn Park Advisory Group meeting on 26 November
  •  Breakfast presentation by Jim Diers for elected representative on 27 November
  • Local Board workshop on 27 November to discuss the Board’s draft annual agreement
  •  Ports of Auckland Briefing to Local Boards on 27 November
  • Good for Business seminar on 28 November
  • Transport portfolio monthly meeting with Auckland Transport (informal catch up)

Events and functions
I attended the following events and functions during November:

  • Cycle Action’s Associates breakfast on 1 November
  • Square Art – opening of the art exhibition in Station Square as part of the Newmarket Festival
  • Art in the Dark event on Friday 9 and Saturday 10 November
  • Highwic House Cycle Style (part of the Festival of Flowers) on 18 November
  • Taste Auckland at Victoria Park on 18 November (at the invitation of Taste Auckland)
  • Opening of Ponsonby Central on 20 November
  • Building a better Newmarket conference hosted by the Newmarket Business Association
  • Grey Lynn Business Association AGM (I have been re-elected to the Board )
  •  Sustainable Business Network’s  Sustainable City Showcase 22-24 November including:
    o   SBN Sustainable Business Awards
    o   Conscious consumer breakfast
    o   Ethical Fashion Show
    o   Walk around with Cr Mike Lee
    o   Carrot mob launched by Mayor Len
  • Social Enterprise Conference organised by CDAC on 26 November
  • Regional Facilities Auckland Limited’s end of year drinks for  Local  Board  Chairs and Deputy Chairs at the Auckland Art Gallery on 28 November
  •  Cycle Action Auckland Christmas gathering in support of Bikes for refugees
  • Invite from Royal NZ Ballet – RNZB season of Giselle on 30 November
  • Ponsonby Market Day on 1 December
  • Launch of the Franklin Road Christmas lights at the Rob Roy plaza on 1 December

Monthly Board Report: November 2012

Covering activities from 1 October – 31 October 2012 and reported on at the Waitemata Local Board meeting held on 13 November 2012

Portfolio Reports

Transport

The Transport Portfolio monthly transport catch up with Auckland Transport was held on 25 October with me and Christopher Dempsey.  We covered a number of issues including:

  • Proposed consultation on the Kingdon Street pedestrian crossing and the provision of a new footpath on railway land between Kingdon Street and Davies Cres
  • Sarawia Street Crossing and the options AT have looked at to permanently close this crossing to vehicles.
  • Update on the Richmond Road Safety Action Plan
  • St Mary’s Bay Parking Trial – initial feedback on the trial at the 3 month point and the work that is underway to review requests for business permits for businesses located outside the zone without off street parking.
  • Eden Tce Parking area introducing consistent pay and display that is about to go out to consultation with the support of the business association.

Full details of these issues and other matters discussed are outlined in the Auckland Transport monthly report attached to the November agenda.

Waitemata Local Board capex priorities

The Local Board Agreement transport proposals for funding from the Local Transport Fund that I reported on last month have now been referred to the Review Group for an initial assessment.

Good for business workshop

Invitations went out on 31 October to business associations and members for the “Good for Business” Seminar to be held on Wednesday 28 November. This will be an opportunity to hear from international expert Rodney Tolley about the economic benefits to business of streetscape investment.

Greenways

The last of our Greenways workshops was held in October to confirm and prioritise the draft greenways routes that we would like presented at our December meeting for endorsing by the Board so that we can start consultation. This is an exciting project that has the potential to transform transport options in our area and will maximise the walking and cycling investment currently underway by Auckland Transport, NZTA and Waterfront Auckland.

Chorus – Ultra Fast Broadband

I have received a number of complaints this month about the standard to which pavements are being re-instated following the Chorus UFB works. In a number of places the high grade footpaths that were renewed in the western bays area only a couple of years ago are being left in a “patchwork” condition. Auckland Transport is following up these issues with Chorus and working to ensure the Code of Practice is followed.

TRAFINZ conference 8/9 October

I attended the NZ Traffic Institute’s annual conference in Takapuna on behalf of the Board.  I learnt a huge amount at the conference about road safety and the “safe system” principles.  I would recommend all members become familiar with the safe system approach to road safety and the responsibility we need to take as politicians for road design and working towards zero fatalities. My conference report is attached.

Community  Portfolio

Community Funding

Tricia Reade attended the Central Local Boards Joint Funding Committee workshop on my behalf on 19 October. We first considered the officer recommendations together for applications to the Community Group Assistance Fund and the Accommodation Support Fund. Both of these funds are substantially over subscribed with many of our local groups relying on the funding support.  The committee meeting to decide which groups will receive funding is on 9 November. The agenda is available online.

Unitary plan

Key stakeholder engagement on the preliminary Unitary Plan proposals that will inform the draft for public consultation in March 2013 got underway in October.  I attended the stakeholder workshop on 4 October and the Unitary Plan public meeting on 18 October. I have also taken every opportunity to gain greater understanding of the Unitary Plan proposals by attending the forums for board members.

Housing affordability

It has been recognised by Auckland Council and the Government that there is a housing crisis in Auckland – a crisis of supply, affordability, quality and choice. I attended the briefing on the Housing Strategic Action Plan (HSAP) that commits Council to working with others to deliver a multi-sector plan. Stage one of the HSAP, which is programmed to be completed by December this year focuses on investigating the whole range of possible housing development vehicles, policy and regulatory tools, available to Council that would increase the supply of affordable housing in Auckland. I would like to see the Auckland Council take a pro-active role in providing and encouraging affordable housing  (which needs to be understood on a continuum from social housing through to assisted home ownership and covering affordable rent) and making full use of the tools available such as inclusionary zoning.

Other issues relevant to the Community portfolio

A range of meetings and presentations were attended during October relevant to the Community portfolio – these are listed below.

Other board activities

Keep Auckland Beautiful Conference

I attended this free conference on Saturday 6 October on behalf of the Board. The conference started with an enthusiastic welcome from the Mayor Len Brown, who is patron of the Keep Auckland Beautiful Trust (KABT).

As I learnt at the conference the KABT is a new Trust that falls under the umbrella of Keep NZ Beautiful. It builds on the work of Keep Waitakere Beautiful that has operated from Eco- Matters Environmental Trust. As a non-profit organisation KNZB operates as a charitable trust to promote litter abatement, waste minimisation as well as town and city beautification across New Zealand.  The purpose of the conference was to the determine what level of interest there is in the Auckland Region for localised beautification projects and what Keep Auckland Beautiful Trust can do to support, foster or initiate these projects.

I asked Iris Donoghue, Chair of the KNZBT about the funding sources of the Trust as I am concerned about the support provided by tobacco companies. Iris confirmed that a tobacco company is a member of the Trust and provides funding (which is voted on each year) but not the Auckland Trust. I think the KNZBT has done a lot of good work and it is great we now have an Auckland Trust but I would like to ensure that any support we provide does not in any way benefit the tobacco industry (for example by providing public place ashtrays that normalise smoking in public areas and put the cost on to Council).

Business Improvement District workshop

I attended the BID workshop with Nick Pinchin from the Grey Lynn Business Association to get a better understanding of the process and funding available for setting up a BID. The workshop covered the value of BIDs in an economic development context, identifying a business area’s needs and the key priorities for a BID, how to engage the business community, surveying businesses, developing a strategic plan, lessons from recent BID establishments, the balloting process, resourcing the establishment process, funding and budgeting to get to a successful outcome. The GLBA is going to consider the process more carefully but the initial reaction is that as there is no longer funding available to support a BID establishment process it is going to be extremely difficult for an association run by volunteers to get a BID off the ground.

Local Board workshops and meetings

Attended during October:

  • Cluster workshop for Local Board members to discuss the first draft of the Parkland Design Guidelines on 1 October.
  • The Parkland Design Guidelines are going to directly influence the design, upgrade and maintenance of all parks across the region.  They will also be an important decision making tool for local board members who will enable them to powerfully evaluate design proposals, achieve cost savings and promote high quality designs.
  • Unitary plan briefing for the Board on historic/character overlays on 2 October
  • Local Board workshop on 2 October ·
  • Meeting on 3 October to discuss the Board’s hosting of Carols by Candlelight and ideas for the event to be held in Western Park on 6 December
  • Low impact design for storm water meeting on 3 October
  • Meeting with the new Stormwater Liaison Advisor about her role and the process for regularly engaging with local boards
  • Feedback on Bylaws: Public Places/Public Safety, Trading and Events meeting on 3 October
  • Auckland Transport’s briefing on 4 October for Local Boards on two key upcoming initiatives: The development of the Regional Public Transport Plan, and the Auckland Cycle Network (previously the Regional Cycle Network)
  • Unitary Plan stakeholder engagement workshop on 4 October (photo right)
  • Monthly catch up with Ashley Church, CEO Newmarket Business Association on 4 October
  • Meeting with Andy Davies and Philip Jones to discuss the placement of the bus stop outside Ponsonby Central and parking issues         Waitemata Local Board business meeting at Graham Street on Tuesday 9 October
  • Meeting to finalise Board’s accessibility action plan on 10 October
  • Annual plan meeting for Board members on 11 October
  • Greenways workshop on 11 October
  • BID Establishment and Collaboration Workshop for board members and business associations on 12 October
  • Housing Strategic Action Plan (HSAP) cluster meeting on 15 October
  • Waitemata Local Board workshop on 16 October
  • Workshop on the Waitemata Coastal Walkway Project on 16 October
  • Movies in the Park Presentation by Gina Dellabarca and Rebecca Knox on 17 October
  • Meeting on 18 October with John Dunshea and Tim Watts regarding the failure to include the Waitemata Local Board’s City Centre priorities and projects in the final version of the CCMP
  • Unitary Plan public engagement on 18 October – information session about the Unitary Plan process
  • GLBA committee meeting on 23 October
  • Waitemata Local Board workshop on 23 October
  • Public Art Concepts for O’Connell St meeting on 23 October
  • Communications update on 23 October
  • Safety in Albert Park meeting
  • Transport portfolio monthly catch up with Auckland Transport on 26 October
  • Draft Library Future Directions plan review on 26 October
  • Community Development and Partnership Central Portfolio Holders meeting (Community Gardens and Social Enterprise) on 26 October
  • Meeting with Megan Barclay from Be Accessible to finalise the Board’s accessibility plan
  • Final meeting of the Mayoral taskforce on alcohol and community safety to review the work and progress to date of the Taskforce initiatives (as alternate to the Chair)
  • Final workshop of the Greenways working group before a report is prepared for the Board’s December meeting
  • Update from Waterfront Auckland on  proposed activation of Queens Wharf and the restoration of Shed 10
  • Unitary Plan Planning Forum – Topics: Rural Urban Boundary & Heritage & Historic Character on 30 October
  • Discussion and lunch at the Waterfront Auckland October board meeting held on 31 October.

Events and functions

I attended the following events and functions during October:

  • Cycle Action’s Associates breakfast on 4 October
  • Joined the start of the Waitemata Local Board’s Original foreshore walk on 5 October. As part of the Heritage Festival, Malcolm Paterson along with Christopher Dempsey as assistant led a walk of 30  from Parnell pool through to the city centre and out to Victoria Park along the historic foreshore.
  • Attended the Keep Auckland Beautiful conference on Saturday 6 October hosted by at the Mt Albert War Memorial Hall, Mt Albert (see report above).
  • Jam on Toast –  a showcase of users of the Grey Lynn Community Centre on 6 October (I supported a stand for the GLBA, GLFM and Grey Lynn 2030)
  • Trafinz Conference 2012 on  8/9 October (report attached)
  • Your Power Team AECT election launch outside Vector on 10 October
  • GLBA monthly networking drinks on 11 October at the Grey Lynn RSC
  • Kelmarna Community Gardens open day on 12 October (I am a trustee of the gardens)
  • Billy Bragg concert at the Town Hall on 12 October – “The greatest enemy of our time isn’t capitalism or conservatism. It’s cynicism”
  • Leys Hall Official Opening on Saturday 13 October
  • Savalivali Grey Lynn Heritage Walk on 13 October
  • Opening of the Divali Festival on 13 October
  • Grey Lynn Farmers’ Market AGM on 14 October  (I was re-elected as Chair )
  • Sustainable Business Network’s 10 birthday party celebrations on 16 October
  • International Triathlon Age-Group World Championships– enjoyed checking out the racing on Labour Day by bike
  • Art in the Dark launch on 23 October at Barrio, Ponsonby Road (photo right)
  • Green Drinks at the Kitchen on 24 October
  • Jeremy Hubbard’s leaving function as Director of MOTAT after 10 years of service on 25 October
  • Launch of the Living Room programme. Arts+ performance funded by the Waitemata Local Board on 26 October
  • Space Invaders car park installation on K’rd on Saturday 27 October
  • Launch of the Italian Festival held at Freeman’s Bay School on  Sunday 27 October including lunch hosted by  Dante Alighieri society
  • Auckland War Memorial Museum and carboNZero programme sustainability event
  • Launch of the Auckland Arts Festival on 31 October at the Aotea Centre – an impressive line-up of local and international acts that is sure to bring a new level of excitement to the festival under the direction of Carla van Zon.

Monthly Board Report October 2012

Covering activities from 1 September to 30 September 2012

Portfolios

  • Transport (West including Regional portfolio) with Greg Moyle
  • Community (including Regional portfolio) with Tricia Reade
  • Chair, Grants Committee
  • Member of the Isthmus Local Board Joint Funding Committee
  • Positions: Grey Lynn Business Association, Newmarket Business Association (alternate)

Portfolio reports

Transport

Waitemata Local Board capex priorities

At the Board’s September business meeting Local Board Agreement transport priorities 2012/13 were endorsed as the key projects to be scoped for delivery through the Local Board Transport $10 million Capital Programme where these projects do not form part of Auckland Transport’s 2012/12 work programme. In September I worked with Auckland Transport and members of the transport portfolio to identify which of these key projects to submit as proposals to Auckland Transport for the Waitemata Local Board’s $469,789 share of the Programme for 2012/13.

The following Local Board Agreement transport proposals have so far been submitted to Auckland Transport for an initial assessment:

1.    Pedestrian intersection improvements ·

  • Kitchener/Bowen/Victoria St West
  • Victoria Street East/Nelson Street
  • Beach Road/Fort Street/Britomart Place/Emily Place intersection

2.    Installation of advance cycle stop boxes with feeder lanes

  • Karangahape Road eastbound at Symonds Street, onto the Grafton Bridge ·
  • Great North Road, eastbound coming onto Karangahape Road

3.    Streetscape Improvements in Teed/Kent/York Streets,Newmarket

4.    Traffic calming – creation of a slow speed zone for Freemans Bay

These proposals have been submitted by the Transport portfolio for an initial assessment by Auckland Transport. Once the forms come back with the initial assessment, the final proposals will be placed on the Board’s agenda for endorsement in November.

Good for business workshop

Substantial progress has been made by Auckland Transport on the “Good for business” workshop with international expert Rodney Tolley. The workshop is aimed at our business associations and business leaders so they can understand why investment in streetscape infrastructure that encourages walking and cycling is good for the local economy The date for the workshop has been confirmed as 28 November.

Cycling Summit

I attended the inaugural Cycling Summit on 5 September hosted by Auckland Transport, NZTA and Cycle Action Auckland aimed at expanding collaboration across Auckland and to learn about innovative projects. 18 speakers were given 5 minutes to present I was impressed with the level of activity, collaboration and the significant commitment of many organisations and individuals working to increase cycling.  Many of the presentations were relevant to our Local Board priorities and projects.

I was particularly interested to learn from Alex Macmillan, Auckland University’s School of Population Health who has identified that if we take a best practice approach to cycle infrastructure by ensuring every arterial has bike lanes and all local roads have traffic calming that we could ensure a 40% mode share with a $3 billion investment over the next 20 years. If we continue on the current path of just completing the Regional Cycle Network we are only likely to achieve 5% by 2050. ‘

Freemans Bay School bike track

At the cycle summit Bike On NZ Director, Paul McArdle spoke about the development of bike tracks in schools and the success of the project in getting kids on bikes since it was started three years ago in Hawkes Bay. Sport Auckland and Bike On NZ are collaborating to install 8 bike tracks in 8 Auckland Schools. Freemans Bay School has been identified as the preferred school for our area with the enthusiastic support of the school principal. I intend following up with members about how we can best contribute to this fantastic project which will have wide community benefits .

Greenways

Also at the cycle summit Richard Barter presented on the Puketapapa Local Board greenways project. Our own greenways project is developing well with fortnightly workshops that have been looking to identify a grid of at least 10 routes with additional extensions that will connect all our open spaces with high amenity, safe walking and cycling facilities. ‘

Community

Community Grants Committee

The Committee met for the first time this financial year to consider applications to the first round of funding from our Community Grants fund of $80,000 per annum. The recommendations from this committee meeting were made to the Board’s meeting on 11 September.

Unitary plan

Along with Tricia Reade I am taking a particular interest in the engagement process for the Unitary Plan. We know there is wide spread community concern about what is proposed for the unitary plan and want to ensure there is a genuine opportunity for meaningful input into the draft plan to be released in March 2013. The first opportunity for stakeholder engagement is at a workshop on 4 October. A public meeting is also scheduled for 18 October. I have also attended 3 workshops throughout the month for board members looking at the first drafts of the planning maps and rules. There is a lot of information to get on top of and I have found these workshops to be very informative.

Other issues relevant to the Community portfolio

A range of meetings and presentations were attended during September relevant to the Community portfolio – these are listed below.

Other board activities

Solid waste bylaws hearing

The Council’s consultation on the Solid Waste Bylaw proposals to meet the council’s obligations under the Local Government (Auckland Transitional Provisions) Act 2010, Local Government Act 2002 and the Waste Minimisation Act 2008 closed on 3 September.  The bylaws will come into force on 1 November 2012. Following on from a bylaws workshop I finalised the Board’s submission with member Dempsey (a copy of the submission is attached to the agenda). On 28 September we presented the submission to the hearing panel chaired by Cr Rafills. A copy of the presentation is attached (Attachment C).

Grey Lynn Park

The Grey Lynn Park Advisory group met on 3 September. We discussed the make up of the group and the group’s charter. Members of the group agreed the charter is still relevant and would very much like to continue with support from the Parks team.  I volunteered to update the group’s charter to reflect the new Council structure. I assisted with the delivery of flyers to advertise our community fruit tree planting on Saturday 15 September. A variety of fruit trees were successfully planting by locals and board members with assistance from Simon Cook, Arboricultural Advisor.

Better Local Government Reforms

On 5 September I joined the Auckland Council delegation speaking to the Council’s submission on the Local Government Act 2002 Amendment Bill at the Local Government and Environment Select Committee Hearings. I spoke after the Deputy Mayor Penny Hulse. There was a short item about the presentation on Checkpoint Council weary of changes to local government act Radio NZ on 5 September 2012. A copy of my presentation is attached is here

Local Board workshops and meetings

  • Chairs weekly meeting with officers on 3 September (following a week of filling in as acting Chair)
  • Chaired the Grants Committee meeting on 3 September
  • Grey Lynn Park Advisory Group meeting on 3 September at the Richmond Rovers Clubrooms
  • Local Board workshops  4, 18 (part only) and 25 September
  • Meeting to discuss the events policy on 4 September
  • Unitary plan stakeholder engagement proposal meeting 5 September
  • Meeting with Charlotte Cuffe on 5 September to discuss Waitemata Local Board Events Fund Applications in preparation for the Board’s September business meeting
  • Local Government Act 2002 Amendment Bill select committee hearing on 5 September (see attached presentation)
  • Local Board Community Development Portfolio holders cluster meeting at the Kitchen on 5 September
  • Upgrade session for a new Local Board member laptop
  • Regional Policies for the Draft Annual Plan cluster workshop on 10 September
  • Greenways workshops on 13 and 27 September
  • Unitary Plan cluster workshops on 6, 13 and 28 September
  • Transport Funding Priorities meeting with Jonathan Anyon (AT) and Eva Lawrence 10 September
  • Grey Lynn Business Association Board meeting on 11 September ·
  • Draft unitary plan mapping session with Tricia Reade and planning officers (providing an opportunity to study the Unitary Plan maps in more detail) ·
  • Waitemata Communications update 11 September
  • Local Board monthly public meeting on 11 September in Grey Lynn
  • Meeting with the Mayor for Chairs and Deputy Chairs of the Waiheke, Albert-Eden and Waitemata Local Boards to discuss the Annual Plan process on 14 September
  • Introducing the new generation of kiwi-kids – Evidence from the Growing Up in New Zealand longitudinal by Dr Susan Morton, Director at the Centre for Longitudinal Research hosted by the Reseach, investigations and monitoring unit
  • Monthly catch up with officers from Community Development and Partnerships Central on 19 September
  • Solid Waste Bylaw briefing 20 September
  • Accessible board follow up – meeting to go through their high level thoughts and questions and finalise plan and confirm budgets on 25 September
  • Resource Recovery Centres progress meeting with Warren Snow on 25 September
  • Monthly transport portfolio catch ups with Auckland Transport on 27 September
  • Solid Waste Bylaw hearing – presentation with Christopher Dempsey on 28 September

Events and functions

I attended the following events and functions during September:

  • Third anniversary celebration of the 40km speed limit on Ponsonby Road organised by Walk Auckland and Auckland Transport on 1 September
  • Newmarket Business Association AGM dinner for Board members (at the invitation of the NBA)
  • Cycling Summit hosted by NZTA, Auckland Transport and Cycle Action on 5 September
  • Cycle Action’s Associates Breakfast at the Art Gallery on 6 September
  • Parnell Heritage AGM on 6 September
  • Royal NZ Ballet’s production of Cinderella at the Aotea Centre of 8 September at the invitation of the Mayor (tickets and after show drinks sponsored by Tower)
  • GLBA monthly networking drinks on 12 September ·
  • Grey Lynn 2030 meeting to discuss setting up an Urban Design group at the Grey Lynn RSC
  • Community orchard fruit tree planting in Grey Lynn Park on Saturday 15 September
  • Zonta Awards dinner at the Barry Court Hotel on 17 September ·
  • Spoke on behalf of the Board at the suffrage day celebrations on 19 September at the Suffrage monument in Khartoum Place
  • NZ Park(ing) day on Ponsonby Road organised by Walk Auckland
  • Ponsonby Market Day on 22 September
  • Tweed Run organised as part of the Ponsonby Road 40km speed limit celebrations
  • Silo Theatre’s production of Private Lives at Q Theatre (at the invitation of Q Theatre)
  • Cycle Action Auckland’s AGM on 27 September
  • Heritage Festival 29 September – 14 October
  • Launch of the Heritage Festival at the Voyager Museum on 27 September
  • First Electric Tram event on 29 September
  • Celebration of the Campbell Free Kindergarten with a presentation by with a presentation by Conservation Architect Bruce Petry on 29 September
  • Auckland Boat Show (at the invitation of ATEED)
  • Richard Heinberg “Life after Growth” presentation on 30 September – the quest for a more resilient, sustainable, and healthy future hosted by the Post Carbon Institute, Grey Lynn 2030 and the Sustainable Business Network.

Monthly board report September 2012

Covering activities from 1 August – 31 August 2012

Portfolios

  • Transport (West including Regional portfolio) with Greg Moyle
  • Community (including Regional portfolio) with Tricia Reade
  • Chair, Grants Committee
  • Member of the Isthmus Local Board Joint Funding Committee
  • Positions: Grey Lynn Business Association, Newmarket Business Association (alternate)

Portfolio reports

Transport

Monthly transport update

The monthly Transport catch up was held with the Transport portfolio and relevant officers from Auckland Transport on 16 August. We covered:

  • Footpath renewals – explanation of how the programme is scheduled (we are waiting to receive the final programme which has been delayed due to budget changes).
  • Auckland Transport CBD Streetscape Team update (this team has recently moved into AT from Council)
  • Cycling and walking improvements proposed for the Domain (refer agenda item)

The issues discussed are reported back monthly by AT on our public agenda.

Waitemata Local Board new footpath priorities 2012-13

Auckland Transport has allocated around $3 million per year in the Regional Land Transport Programme to construct new footpaths. Local Boards have been invited to assist in establishing the new footpath programme by providing proposals to Auckland Transport.  The attached memo outlines the proposal for a footpath on Judges Bay Road extension that I have submitted on behalf of the Board.

A number of issues have been referred to Auckland Transport this month regarding footpath patching following the installation of ultra-fast broadband by Chorus, traffic concerns resulting from the opening of Farro Fresh on Westmorland Street in Grey Lynn and parking enforcement in parks.

Community

Affordable Housing

I attended two excellent presentations during August on the subject of affordable housing.  George Housakos, CEO of Urban Communities Ltd, Victoria, Australia spoke at a lunchtime learning event about building mixed tenure communities.  He shared valuable experience about making the most of business streams that are the key to the success of a mixed tenure project. He highlighted that it makes good business sense to bring everyone to the table and to develop a management and delivery structure that involves the owners.

I also attended the launch of the Salvation Army Social Policy and Parliamentary Unit’s paper Adding it all up- Political Economy of Auckland’s Housing by Alan Johnson. Ian Shirley, Pro vice Chancellor of AUT introduced the author. The paper seeks to analyse the underlying institutional and philosophical reasons for the Auckland’s current housing shortage and makes specific points for action by Auckland Council to work towards building affordable housing.

Community Development

I attended the breakfast seminar with Jim Diers, a community development practitioner from Seattle, who was jointly hosted by Auckland Council and Inspiring Communities. His focus is on building strong communities and neighbourhoods from the ground up. His presentation “Community Power unleashed” was inspiring and extremely relevant to Auckland and many of the initiatives we are supporting as a Board. Some of the points I took away:

  • Encourage active citizens – not just ratepayers
  • Move from silos at Council (in Seattle he started a Department of Neighbourhoods) –
  • Start with the community’s strengths NOT needs

I was really interested to learn about the Seattle neighbourhood matching funds scheme (currently $4.5m) that allows any group or individual to create one-off projects. This scheme has seen some fantastic projects get developed without creating dependency on Council.

Also relevant to our Board projects was his advice about how to encourage community driven planning where neighbourhood plans are locally initiated and developed. The Council provides funding and technical assistance but the community hires their own planners, defines the scope of work and drives the plan throughout the process. Jim Diers gave examples of this approach working successfully in Seattle where the implementation has happened and the resources of the Council and the community have multiplied as a result.

Libraries

There were a number of workshops in August looking at the future direction of our libraries and the work being undertaken by the department to contribute to the vision of the Auckland Plan. At the workshop for all Boards on 29 August we had the opportunity to learn from and discuss with senior staff the long term direction for libraries, trends, focus for 2012/13, library facilities planning, programmes and events – regional/local, digital developments, library collections, local history heritage and archival collections. I am impressed that the Libraries team are really getting to grips with the challenges and opportunities arising from the move from the information age, with books as the central feature, to the knowledge society.  Allison Dobbie, Manager Libraries and Information, spoke about libraries moving to being high touch, high tech, high use, high engagement and making content (in whatever form) fully accessible . I think she is right that library space is as relevant as ever and can fulfil a role in the community that no other agency can.

Other issues relevant to the Community portfolio

A range of meetings and presentations were attended during August relevant to the Community portfolio – these are listed below including a presentation by students on their research project-  Women’s Safety: Myer’s Park and Newmarket Train Station Square and the Local Settlement Network meeting.

Other board activities

Greenways

Work is now underway on the Board’s project to develop greenways and greenlinks throughout the Board to connect our open space and parks and to create safe options for walking and cycling and provide for ecological benefits. During August we had 3 workshops with members from Transport and Parks and Council officers who are working on developing a map of potential greenways. Workshops are continuing every fortnight.

LGNZ Zone One Meeting

I attended the Zone One meeting in Orewa on 24 August on behalf of the Board.  Presentations included:

  • Public Libraries of NZ – Strategic Framework
  • Sally Davenport from the NZ Productivity Commission  –  to discuss the Local government regulatory performance issues paper
  • LGNZ update from Malcolm Alexander, CEO of LGNZ

I found this Zone meeting to be the most worthwhile of the three I have now attended as it directly addressed local board issues and allowed for meaningful discussion involving local board members.

Grey Lynn Park

The Grey Lynn Park Advisory group met for the first time under the new Council structure. Members of the group have been frustrated at the lack of action in the Park and brought their concerns to our Board meeting in July. A number of issues have now been progressed as a result of the meeting and we are looking to continue on a quarterly basis going forward. I assisted member Chalmers in writing a letter to neighbours of Grey Lynn Park regarding the proposed fruit tree planting to take place on 15 September.  25 letters were delivered by my partner Paul on a voluntary basis.

Local Board workshops and meetings

Attended:

  • Greenways workshops on 2, 16 and 30th August
  • Meeting with members of the Newmarket Protection Society regarding Station Square
  • Grey Lynn Park Advisory Group meeting on 6 August at the Richmond Rovers Clubrooms
  • Local Board workshop on 7 August
  • Women’s Safety: Myer’s Park and Newmarket Train Station Square Report presented by students of Auckland University to the community portfolio and community development officers on 10 August ·
  • Waitemata Communications update 14 August ·
  • Libraries Future Directions meeting on 14 August (community portfolio)
  • Local Board monthly  public meeting on 14 August in Parnell
  • Monthly catch up with officers from Community Development and Partnerships Central on 15 August ·
  • Graffiti Vandalism – Local Boards cluster workshop on 15 August to be briefed on the Auckland Graffiti Vandalism Prevention Plan July 2012
  •  Auckland Transport presentation to Heart of the City on the City Centre Parking Scheme consultation results on 15 August
  • Monthly transport portfolio catch ups with Auckland Transport on 16 August ·
  • Ponsonby development briefing by Progressive on 17 August ·
  • The health of children and young people in Auckland – research presented by Liz Craig ·
  • Meeting with the new E&B Reporter, Karina Abadia ·
  • Community Unleashed – a breakfast seminar with Jim Diers on 21 August ·
  • CMP Khyber Pass follow up meeting with Waitemata Local Board 23 August ·
  • Parnell Trust meeting on 23 August ·
  •  LGNZ Zone One meeting in Orewa on 24 August ·
  • Meeting with the Waitemata Local Board Relationship Manager 27 August (filling in for the Chair) ·
  • ATEED Tourism Industry Update at the Crowne Plaza Hotel on 27 August ·
  • Local Board and Libraries Workshop at Henderson on 29 August ·
  • Local Settlement meeting Community Connectedness – collaboration to help newcomers to feel connected to our community organised by Settlement Support New Zealand on 30 August ·
  • Child Play Spaces Meeting with the Public Art team on 30 August

Events and functions

I attended the following events and functions during August:

  • Cycle Action’s Associates Breakfast at the Art Gallery on 2 August
  • First Thursdays on K’rd
  • Opening of Powerflowers by Paul Hartigan in the Bledisloe walkway on Friday 3 August
  • Grey Power public meeting at the Flicking Centre with speakers David Shearer and Winston Peters on 7 August
  • Grey Lynn Business Association August networking drinks at Café O
  • Red carpet night in West Lynn
  • City Centre Masterplan and Waterfront Plan launch at the Cloud on 10 August
  • Lighting up celebrations of the new “3 Lamps” at Three Lamps in Ponsonby on 10 August
  • Auckland Conversation with George Housakos, CEO of Urban Communities Ltd, Victoria, Australia on 13 August
  • Bio- diversity Strategy launch at the Town Hall on 15 August (photo right)
  •  Auckland Transport Blog fundraiser movie “Urbanize”
  •  Citizenship ceremony on 20 August at the Town Hall (photo right)
  • Parent Action Group meeting at Western Springs College regarding the new school development and community consultation 21 August
  • Political Economy of Auckland’s Housing 23 August at AUT
  • 2012 Roading Excellence Awards Dinner at the Langham – Auckland Council Shared Space projects won the medium road project category and the Kitchener St Upgrade project was a finalist (minor road category)
  • Table talk at the Kitchen on 29 August – presentations by social innovators and change makers
  • Launch of the SugarTree – a $250m residential and commercial development on Nelson Street Recommendation

Monthly Board Report August 2012

Waitemata Local Board member monthly report: Covering activities from 1 July – 31 July 2012

Board responsibilities:

  • Transport (West including Regional portfolio) with Greg Moyle
  • Community (including Regional portfolio) with Tricia Reade
  • Chair, Grants Committee
  • Member of the Isthmus Local Board Joint Funding Committee
  • Positions: Grey Lynn Business Association, Newmarket Business Association (alternate)

Portfolio reports

Transport

Transport Monthly transport update

The monthly Transport catch up was held with the Transport portfolio and relevant officers from Auckland Transport on 26 July. The issues discussed are reported back monthly by AT on our public agenda.

Auckland (Regional) Cycle Network

At our April meeting we referred our concern that the Regional Cycle Network (RCN) has been reported as 28% complete to the Auckland Transport Board on 21 March and the Transport Committee despite the lack of safe, continuous and connected routes particularly on “completed” parts of the network in the Waitemata Local Board area to the Transport Committee.

In July, with Christopher Dempsey, I presented to the Transport Committee on the cycling network – now named the Auckland Cycle Network. The Transport Committee responded positively by moving  (Cr C Casey, seconded Cr GS Wood) that Auckland Transport and NZTA report on the current state of the Auckland Cycle Network and the extent to which the reported 28% complete cycle network is of sufficient standard, and plans to achieve the Auckland Plan targets. I look forward to receiving this report from Auckland Transport.

St Mary’s Bay Parking Zone Trial

The Ponsonby Road Business Association have raised concerns with Board members about the impact of the new parking zone restrictions on Jervois Road businesses which came into effect on 23 July. I have provided the following response: The  St Marys Bay Parking Permit Zone is being trialled for a year to deal with the issue of all day commuter parking. From the feedback at the St Mary’s Bay Residents Association AGM (held on 26 July) and directly to Auckland Transport it would appear that a majority of residents are in favour of the zone (probably about 80% now compared with only 50% when it was first proposed). If St Marys Bay is a success we are likely to see parking zones extended to Freemans Bay and other city fringe suburbs as there is so much demand to restrict all day commuter parking in residential streets.

Businesses within the zone can apply for permits even for cars not registered at the address. Mercy hospital has been allocated a specific number of permits and St Marys College are eligible to receive 20 (although they have requested more).   Currently no one is eligible for permits from outside of the zone. This is likely to have the biggest impact on businesses close to the zone especially in heritage buildings with little or no off street parking that have been using residential streets for all day parking. Employees, tenants and business owners are going to experience a period of disruption while they adapt to the zone restrictions.  However Auckland Transport have agreed to review the eligibility of permits for those outside the zone within 3 months (rather than 1 year).  This will be after assessing the availability of space within the zone and the degree to which it is being used by short stay visitors. One of the benefits of the zone for business is that more parking will be available for customers.  There needs to be a trial to be able to establish that benefit and to assess the appropriate number of permits that should be made available .  Another potential positive for Ponsonby is that the zone results in less traffic as fewer commuters will come into the area.

I appreciate that the PBA would like action on out of zone permits to be taken sooner but I think by allowing for a period of assessment (as suggested by AT) will result in a much better outcome for the residents, businesses and visitors.

Community

Unitary Plan community engagement

It is really positive news that the Auckland Plan Committee in early July agreed to extensive, wide-ranging community engagement prior to the release of a Unitary Plan discussion document in March 2013 (rather than stick to the orginal timetable to notify a draft plan in December). We now have an opportunity as a local board to meaningfully debate the details of the Unitary Plan with our communities and for input by key stakeholders during September and October. Many people worked behind the scenes to reach this decision by the governing body but I particularly acknowledge our hard working Unitary Plan team of Shale Chambers, Christopher Dempsey and Tricia Reade. Following this decision the community portfolio jumped at the opportunity to work on the details of our engagement plan and strategy to ensure we undertake the most effective consultation possible to achieve the best outcomes for the Unitary Plan.

Community Grants

The Community portfolio team worked with officers to finalise the details of the Board’s community grants fund application and guidelines. Details of this and the regional funding schemes went live on the Council website at the end of July. An email was sent to all our community stakeholder database to advise that Auckland Council is currently inviting applications for a range of community grants funds.

The funds applicable to the Waitemata Local Board area are:

1.   Waitemata Local Board Community Grant

2.   Waitemata Local Board Events Fund

3.   Community group assistance fund

4.   Community group accommodation support fund

5.   Auckland City Cultural Heritage Fund

The first round for the Waitemata Local Board funds closes on 17 August.

Central Joint Funding Committee

I am the Board’s representative on the Central Joint Funding Committee that has been allocated responsibility for administering legacy community funding schemes. The Committee held its first, largely procedural,  meeting on 30 July. We elected Leila Boyle as chair and Desley Simpson as deputy chair and agreed the terms of reference of the committee that ensure that in practice the same model as 2011/12 will be implemented. Funds were also distributed to the Great Barrier Island and Waiheke Island Local Boards. The agenda and minutes of this committee are available on the Board’s website page under “Local Board agendas and minutes”.

Other issues relevant to the Community portfolio

A range of meetings were attended during July relevant to the Community portfolio – these are listed below.

Other Board Activities

Local Government Act 2002 Amendment Bill

At the Board’s July meeting we confirmed out agreement with the  Auckland Council’s proposed submission on the Local Government Act 2002 Amendment Bill with one exception regarding the elected council setting employment and remuneration policy. I drafted the Board’s submission to make additional comments in relation to the proposed consequential changes to the Local Government (Auckland Council) Act 2009 (the Act) and the impact on local boards. A copy of the submission is attached to the agenda.

Declaration of Interests 2012

I submitted my Declaration of Interests in accordance with Auckland’s Code of Conduct at the end of June. I have decided to make a register of my interests publicly available and to keep it up to date on my website.

LGNZ conference

I attended the LGNZ annual conference on behalf of the Waitemata Local Board with funding from the Board’s professional development budget. My report on the conference including my expenses is available here

Local Board workshops and meetings

Attended: Local Board workshop on 3 July

  • Transport Committee meeting on 4 July
  • Meeting to discuss the future of Pioneer Womans Hall as a community asset
  • Various meetings to confirm the board’s community grants application and guidelines.
  • Meetings to discuss the board’s unitary plan engagement strategy
  • Meeting with the Telecom Foundation to discuss the location of the Telecom Christmas tree
  • Workshop for local board members on the Local Government Act 2002 Amendment Bill
  • Cluster workshop on 9 July regarding the Sports and Recreation strategy
  • Waitemata Local Board monthly public meeting on 10 July at 35 Graham Street
  • Meeting to discuss the recommendations of the operational subsidies for Community Centres in the Waitemata Local Board area on 11 July
  • Parnell roundabout meeting with Auckland Transport
  • Site visit to Lumsden Green with board members and officers regarding the proposal to develop a new café frontage on the square.
  • Monthly catch up with Ashley Church, CEO Newmarket Business Association
  • Local Board workshop on 24 July Waitemata communications catch up
  • Monthly meeting with  Community Development and Partnerships Central
  • Joint meeting with Stephen Town, NZTA and Matthew Rednall, AT to discuss the status of various projects in the Waitemata area –  city centre motorway ramps; update on one system approach with AT; Grafton Gully to port; grafton gully cycleway project
  • Pacific Island Pioneers Centre proposal meeting with Rev. Obed Unasa
  • Bikes in Schools programme meeting with Sport Auckland
  • Next steps with Public Art meeting on 19 July Meeting  regarding plans for a Wynyard Quarter farmers’ market
  • Public Forum on Newmarket Station Square on 25 July
  • Monthly transport portfolio catch ups with Auckland Transport on 26 July
  • Preparatory meeting for Grey Lynn Park Advisory group meeting
  • Central Joint Funding Committee meeting on 30 July
  • Community Forum on the social implications of gambling at the Problem Gambling Foundation of NZ boardroom, 31 July

Events and functions

I attended the following events and functions during July:

  • Farmers’ Market of NZ conference on Monday 2 July at the Jubiliee Buildings (in my role as chair of the GLFM)
  • Auckland Conversations on 3 July – an excellent presentation by Bill Dunster, founder of the ZED factory who spoke about how to reduce our environmental impact while increasing our quality of life
  • Western Bays Community Group meeting in Grey Lynn on 3 July
  • Cycle Action’s Associates Breakfast at the Art Gallery on 5 July
  • Good Drinks on 5 July at the Nathan club raising money for the Village Project in Uganda
  • Grey Lynn Business Association July networking drinks at Kokako
  • “Reclaiming Grey Lynn’s resources” presentation with Warren Snow organised by Grey Lynn 2030 at the Grey Lynn RSC
  • 15-17 July LGNZ conference in Queenstown
  • Kermadec Fundraiser at Western Springs College
  • Richmond Rovers Rugby League Club – Afi Ah Kuoi Memorial Day on Saturday 21 July
  • Krishnan’s Dairy at Q Theatre (at the invitation of Q Theatre)
  • GLBA seminar – .  “Attract – How to Get More Customers Online”
  • St Mary’s Bay Association Inc. AGM 26 July
  • Korean Veterans Cease Fire Parade on 27 July – presented a wreath with Christine Fletcher on behalf of the Council
  • Sustainable Environment Awards presentation 2012 on 30 July
  • Blessing of the Garden to table project at Wynyard Quarter on 31 July

Monthly Board report – July 2012

Covering activities from 1 June – 30 June 2012

Porfolios

Transport

Monthly transport update

The monthly Transport catch up was held with the Transport portfolio (attended by myself and Member Dempsey) and relevant officers from Auckland Transport on 28 June. The issues discussed are reported back monthly by AT on our public agenda.  Specific issues include:

  • K’rd bus shelters –options AT are looking at to lower the panels that are currently blocking the view from the overbridge
  • Route optimisation process – a discussion about the approach taken to investigate and review existing traffic systems
  • Auckland Cycle network-  programme for development of what was known as the Regional Cycle Network

Richmond Road Safety Action Plan

Due to the numerous safety concerns raised by residents, businesses and Richmond Road School we are advocating through our Local Board Agreement for Auckland Transport to develop a safety improvement action plan for the shopping areas and schools zones on Richmond Road, concentrating on the following elements:

  • Pedestrian and cycle safety
  • Traffic calming and slower speeds
  • Urban design and amenity values.

I am currently in the process of pulling together all the issues that have come to our attention to form the basis of this plan.

Chorus Ultra-Fast Broadband rollout

We were briefed last month by Chorus on their rollout of ultra-fast broadband within the Waitemata Local Board area. The rollout will have many benefits to residents and businesses as average data speeds will increase from 10 Mbps to 100 Mbps. However the rollout does require footpaths to put be dug up, many of which have only just been renewed.

On 26 June I attended the Chorus “Shed some light” open evening for residents at Café O, Great North Road. A number of residents from Arch Hill came along who fought hard to have their footpaths renewed in time for the RWC but are about to see them dug up for the rollout.

I have also raised with Auckland Transport that Chorus is not reinstating footpaths to exactly the same condition following the laying of fibre which is resulting in a patchwork of footpaths.

 Allocation of Auckland Transport capital budget to Local Board Priorities

I was delegated with Christopher Dempsey to provide the Board’s feedback on a discussion paper on the Allocation of an Auckland Transport $10m capital budget to fund Local Board priorities. We would like to see the budget used to fund small, one-off, single-site projects or initiatives that add value, enhance or unlock Auckland Transport directed projects that would not otherwise be funded  A copy of this feedback is attached to the agenda.

Community

Gambling Harm Reduction Amendment Bill

A Working Party is preparing Auckland Council’s submission on the Gambling (Harm Reduction) Amendment Bill (the Bill). At our business meeting on 12 June the Community Portfolio holders, were delegated to provide feedback on the Bill to the working party by 29 June 2012.

The amendments proposed in the Bill would significantly change the way Council interacts with the Class 4 gaming sector (non-casino “pokie” machines).

The feedback confirms the Board supports transferring to local authorities the ability to regulate gambling within their locality, including the number of machines and venues, and their type and location. However we raised a number of issues that we believe need to be addressed in the Bill particularly regarding distribution decisions. A full copy of the feedback is attached to the agenda.

Other issues relevant to the Community portfolio

A range of meetings were attended during June relevant to the Community portfolio – these are listed below.

Other Board activities

Grey Lynn Business Association

The GLBA business meeting on 19 June included a presentation by local planner Kris Macpherson on the Council’s planning process. Members of the Western Bays Community Group joined the meeting to discuss ideas for developing a Grey Lynn precinct plan.

Weona Westmere Coastal Walkway

At our Board meeting on 19 June I voted with my City Vision colleagues to progress the proposed Westmere walkway on public reserve land.  I wish to report on my reasons and why I believe all the issues raised in opposition at the open day on 17 May and at our meeting and sent via email can be adequately addressed.

Lack of consultation – it is unfortunate that a group of residents didn’t receive notice of the open day until it was too late. This was a stuff up however the open day wasn’t the only opportunity for residents to provide feedback on the proposal. The idea of a walkway and opening up the public reserve land is also not new. I first heard about it in August 2010 at a Western Bays Community Board meeting. Consulation is continuing with residents.

Privacy – residents who have enjoyed exclusive use of the public reserve will now have to deal with a walkway bordering their property. Privacy can be achieved through fencing and planting. However I have noticed in other coastal areas where private homes boarder public reserve land that each property engages differently with a walkway. Many residents open their gardens on to the reserve and prefer to have no fencing.

Safety – there is no evidence that coastal walkways on public reserve land increase safety risks for nearby residents. If anything passive surveillance is likely to improve safety.

Traffic – if the walkway does attract more visitors they are likely to park close to the Garnet Road shops to do a circular walk ending with visit to a café (thereby supporting the local economy). Once the walkway is further extended with signage to Westhaven (by road through Herne Bay at high tide or along the coast at low tide) I predict that walkers are likely to get dropped off to enjoy a one- way coastal walk.

Cost – it does seem like a lot of money is being spent on one project. However compared with other capex projects I think we are getting good value money for a 1.4km walkway that will have long term benefits. It will be unfortunate if costs escalate due to affected neighbours taking their opposition to the environment court.

Loss of funding for other projects –Member Moyle claimed that he has been blocked from advancing other projects where the funds could be better spent. This is incorrect. Member Moyle has proposed just one new project in 18 months for a car park on reserve land at Coxs Bay. With the support of the Board plans were drawn up for this proposal and costed. The proposal is currently with Auckland Transport. There are no projects identified in the local board plan that are going unfunded as a result of the walkway.

Loss of neighbourhood character – the walkway is likely to add to the character of the neighbourhood and become a key feature for the benefit of locals. The walkway also provides an opportunity to celebrate the heritage of the area which has long been neglected.

Environmental damage – at the open day I heard about middens along the route and the many ecological values of the area. I also heard that there is continuing concern about the pollution in Motions Creek. I think the walkway is an opportunity to enhance and project the environment. Historic features can be incorporated into the interpretation boards for the walkway.

At the end of the day the walkway is on public reserve land that belongs to everyone. For over 80 years the residents with coastal properties have enjoyed almost exclusive use and have come to see the coastal reserve as an extension of their backyards. I can therefore fully understand why the walkway is seen as a threat to their lifestyle and there are concerns.  However I believe these can be addressed by the Board and Council officers working with the residents. I think the walkway is going to be used primarily by locals who I hope will come to feel proud of it as a lasting legacy.

Local Board workshops and meetings

Attended:

  • Local Board workshop on 5 June with members of the Be Accessible team to work towards a vision statement and action for the Board around our goal to become the first “accessible” Local Board. The workshop was a unique collaboration with officers and Board members.
  • Site meeting on 1 June to discuss fruit tree planting in Grey Lynn Park with Simon Cook, Jesse Chalmers and members of Grey Lynn 2030
  • Visit to The Kitchen (a collaborative workspace for change makers and social entrepreneurs in Ponsonby)  with members of Puketapapa Local Board and Community Development officers
  • Tamaki Drive master plan workshop organised by Orakei Local Board on 5 June in St Heliers
  • Meeting with Waterfront Auckland to discuss local board priorities and Waterfront Auckland projects update
  • Unitary Plan central cluster workshop on 7 June  providing an opportunity for Local Board members to input into key issues
  • Governing Body meeting making decisions on the draft waste management and minimisation plan
  • Waitemata Local Board public meetings on 12 June at the Grey Lynn Community Centre and on 19 June at 35 Graham Street
  • Regional Walking and Cycling Forum organised by Auckland Transport on 12 June
  • Hīkoi, Part II walking of the proposed Waitemata heritage foreshore with Malcolm Paterson from Ngati Whatua o Orakei
  • Meeting of the Community portfolios from Waitemata, Puketapapa and Albert-Eden Local Boards to discuss possibilities for collaboration
  • Meeting to discuss Waitemata’s submission on the Gambling Harm Reduction Bill
  • Youth Focus Strategy with Community Development officers
  • Local Board workshop on 19 June
  • Waitemata Communications catch up
  • Monthly meeting with  Community Development and Partnerships Central
  • Meeting to discuss Pt Resolution Bridge design proposals
  • Meeting to discuss the proposed capital renewal programme for 12/13 for community facilities.  Officers have worked together to compile a list of proposed capital work projects for each local board area (central at this stage), prioritised and rated the projects in order of need, and matched against local board community facilities budget.
  • Meeting with Malcolm Paterson; Manager -Ngāti Whātua o Ōrākei Heritage and Resource Management Unit following the Hikoi to discuss the board’s 2012/13 projects and priorities and to discuss how the board can best work with Ngāti Whātua o Orakei to progress these projects in a mutually beneficial way.
  • Meeting with Auckland Transport and Council officers to provide the Board with an opportunity to communicate feedback on any issues, concerns, ideas or opportunities relating to the development of the Khyber Pass and Broadway corridor plans
  • Meeting with members of the Western Bays Community Group to discuss community engagement
  • June ATEED Board Meeting – Meet and Greet with Local Board Chairs (attended for the Chair)
  • Meeting with Auckland Transport to discuss the proposed City Centre Parking Zone proposal attending by the Board and Cr Mike Lee
  • Meeting to discuss Auckland Council’s discussion document “Powering Auckland’s Low Carbon Transformation”
  • Meetings to finalise the Board’s feedback on the Gambling Harm Reduction Amendment Bill and the Discussion Document on the proposed allocation of the $10m capex fund for Local Board priorities
  • Follow up meeting with a member of the public concerned with the level of spitting in the city centre that creates a hazard for those using walking sticks
  • Local Board workshop on 26 June – we received a report outlining the community input on the future of the Campbell Free Kindergarten
  • Monthly transport portfolio catch ups with Auckland Transport on 29 June

Events and functions

I attended the following events and functions during May:

  • Backbenches TVNZ 7’s final Auckland show at the Britomart Social Club
  • Cycle Action’s Associates Breakfast at the Art Gallery on 7 June
  • Auckland Peace City  Declaration – Launch on 8 June
  • Gala Preview of the TelstraClear Season of A Shortcut To Happiness at the invitation of the Auckland Theatre Company on 8 June
  • Twenty Fifth Anniversary of Nuclear Free New Zealand on Saturday 9 June in Aotea Square
  • Youth Advisory Panel Waitemata selection event
  • Grey Lynn Business Association June networking drinks
  • Launch of the Matariki Festival at the Mangere Events Centre
  • Public Open Day for the proposed Development Plan of Myers Park and heritage walk with Edward Bennett
  • Inner City Connectedness Research Launch by Parnell Trust on 18 June
  • VIP celebration for the reopening of  the restored Tepid Baths
  • Official opening of the Tepid Baths on Saturday 23 June
  • Chorus “Shed some light” open evening for residents on 26 June at Café O, Great North Road
  • Cocktail Party to launch Highwic’s 150th year on 27 June
  • Gala Opening of Margaret Mahy’s The Great Piratical Rumbustification at the Pumphouse (at the invitation of Tim Bray Productions)

I was one  of 3 guest speakers to present on “Sustainable Auckland” at the Mercy Spirituality Centre in Epsom on 6 June

I also participated in The Big Sleepout on 28 June with 60 celebrities, business leaders and politicians personally raising over $1500 for Lifewise’s support of homelessness.

Monthly Board Report – June 2012

Covering Local Board activities from 1 May – 31 May 2012

Portfolio reports

Transport

Monthly transport update

The monthly Transport catch up was held with the Transport portfolio (attended by myself, Members Dempsey and Moyle) and relevant officers from Auckland Transport on 24 May. The issues discussed are reported back monthly by AT on our public agenda.  Specific issues include:

  • Community Garden proposal on the roof of the Cross Street car park
  • Cycling route from the Airport to downtown as part of the National Cycleway Network (the last stages of the route from Newton Road to Britomart are through the Waitemata Local Board area )
  • Parking Survey for Parnell
  • Westend Bus terminus and the potential for a bus turn around point at Coxs Bay

Follow up: a parking survey for the Grey Lynn surrey Cres shops in conjunction with the Grey Lynn Business Association briefing from NZTA to update the Board on NZTA/AT projects in the Waitemata area

Bike Parking

Auckland Transport has responded positively and promptly to requests for additional bike parking in Grey Lynn and West Lynn shops at four new locations. The owner of Kokako café is particularly happy that AT has installed parking on the corner of Great North Road and Williamson Ave and wrote: “Just wanted to say thank you for organising the bike racks in front of Kokako – they are awesome and our customers are loving them!”

During May, I joined AT for meetings with the Ponsonby Business Association to discuss a trial bike parking corral on Ponsonby Road and the K’rd Business Association to discuss locations for trial mini “bikerakks” (bike stands attached to existing poles) on K’rd. Auckland Transport is supporting both of these initiatives and has purchased 10 bikerakks minis for use on K’rd.

Member Dempsey and I met on site with our Elected Member Liaison Manager to discuss the lack of bike parking near Britomart station. This was prompted by the removal of bikes (including mine!) that were considered safety hazards by security at the station.

K’rd over bridge On behalf of the K’rd Business Association, I have been following up on the incorrect installation of the panels on the K’rd overbridge. Auckland Transport has advised that the architects preferred the current height in order to shield the unsightly landing/bridge area from the view while the business association did not support this design.

Next Steps: Auckland Transport is arranging a meeting with Barbara Holloway from the KBA to discuss two potential options.

Allocation of transport capital budgets to Local Boards

A Local Board cluster briefing was held during May on a proposed $10m Local Board transport capex fund. At the briefing, we were informed that this fund would be available for Local Board projects NOT in the current transport programme.   I followed up with a query to Stephen Rainbow asking AT to confirm what  Local Board transport projects and priorities (identified in either Local Board plans or agreements)  are included in AT’s work programme. I am yet to receive a response. Local Boards have been asked to respond to a discussion document however I do not consider it possible to provide feedback on how the proposed fund is allocated until AT’s understanding of the current framework and prioritisation process has been clearly articulated.

“Good for Business” workshop

In my February monthly board report I reported back on the Auckland Walking Seminar “stepping into the future” hosted by Auckland Transport with guest speaker Dr Rodney Tolley, author of the Good for Business report. As a follow up to this seminar I have met with Auckland Transport to look at arranging a jointly hosted workshop for business associations interested in understanding the economic benefits of making streets more walking and cycling friendly. Next steps: AT to invite Rodney Tolly to present at a workshop

 Community

Community Engagement

During May, I attended two Board events to seek community feedback. After the Mayor officially opened the Campbell Free Kindergarten on 5 May, an open day was held to hear ideas about possible uses for the building. We are yet to receive an official report on the submissions but there was good turn out and lots of positive suggestions about community uses. Weona Reserve Walkway open evening was held at Seddon Fields football club on 17 May. Many of the affected residents took the opportunity to discuss the plans with Board members and officers.  A report on the feedback will be on the agenda for the Board’s meeting on 19 June.

Community Assistance Framework

The community portfolio worked with officers to finalised high-level feedback on the draft Community Assistance Framework (comprising on the draft Community Funding Policy, draft Community Occupancy Policy and draft Facility partnership Policy).  This feedback is attached to the agenda. Specific concerns about the changes to the Accommodation Support Fund, Arts Alive Funding and Events funding as part of the Funding Policy were made by way of resolution at the Board’s May meeting (refer item 40 of the minutes).

Western Springs College presentation of Enviroschools Silver sign

I was honoured to have the opportunity to present Western Springs College with their Enviroschools Silver sign at a student-led junior assembly on 15 May. (A copy of my speech is attached as Attachment A) After the presentation, the Waste Wise students led a tour of the waste minimisation projects around the school such as the separated waste bins and a composter.

Smoke free launch

I assisted Member Tricia Reade with planning for the launch of smokefree playgrounds with an event on World Smokefree Day at Victoria Park Skate Park. We met with the Principal and Deputy Principal of Ponsonby Intermediate to discuss the launch and how it could best involve students from the School. We also met with officers and the Cancer Society to plan the event. The official unveiling of the Board’s new Smokefree signage took place on 31 May with a display by Ponsonby Intermediate’s cheer leading squad and  skateboard and scooter competitions.

Accessible Business Cards

In our Local Board Plan, we have made a commitment to become an accessible board and area. When the opportunity came to have new business cards printed, on the advice of Auckland Council’s disability advisor, I requested a font size of 14 for details on the card. It took 2 months but with the assistance of Emma Monk, communications advisor, I am very proud to now have, what I believe to be, Auckland Council’s first large font size business cards (see Attachment B). I recommend the design as simple and effective and that it should become the default for all business cards within the organisation.

Other issues relevant to the Community portfolio A range of meetings were attended during May relevant to the Community portfolio – these are listed below.

Other board activities

Fairtrade Auckland

On 4 May, Mayor Len Brown launched Auckland’s status as a Fair Trade City joining a network of 1000 towns and cities around the world. The Waitemata Local Board kicked off the process through Auckland Council to meet one of the key requirements of being certified a Fair Trade City. It took exactly a year from our own resolution to be the first Fair Trade Local Board in May 2011 for the decision to go to through the Council’s Economic Forum, the Tenders and Procurement sub-committee and finally to the Regional and Operations Development Committee in March when the Mayor and Council voted unanimously in support. The Mayor received Auckland’s Fair Trade certificate from Michael Toliman, the coffee farmer from Papua New Guinea in New Zealand for fairtrade fortnight. The Board held its Fair Trade coffee break at the Board office on 17 May raising $100 for Oxfam. Chris Morrison and Julia Collins from All Good Bananas were our special guests who generously provide a box of Fairtrade Bananas.

Grey Lynn Business Association I attended the GLBA business meeting on 1 May. I am following up a number of issues for the GLBA board including parking issues and streetscape improvements at the Surrey Cres shops.

Waste Management & Minimisation Plan

I am taking a close interest in the development of the Council’s waste plan. I attended the deliberations meeting of the Hearings Panel on the draft plan on 29 May. The recommendations to be made to the governing body on 8 June are consistent with the Board’s support for waste to be considered a valuable resource with appropriate incentives to encourage recycling and waste minimisation. The panel gave particularly strong support for the development of a resource recovery network to replace the inorganic collection and noted the initiative of the Waitemata,  Albert – Eden and Puketapapa Local Boards to develop a pilot resource recovery centre.

Local Board Agreement

Following consultation and deliberations on the Waitemata Local Board Agreement the final amendments were agreed at our May public meeting. I took a particular interest in the Advocacy to Auckland Transport section of the Agreement and recommended amendments that ensure all the proposed projects for 2012/13 are consistent with Auckland Transport’s work programme and the Local Board priorities. I supported the Chair in preparing for our “Discussion” with the governing body and spoke to the transport issues at the meeting. Although Section  21(1) of the Local Government (Auckland Council) Act 2010 requires that for each financial year, the Auckland Council must have a local board agreement (as agreed between the governing body and the local board) for each local board area,  it is disappointing that at no point in the process has a “negotiation” occurred between the local board and the governing body.

LGNZ  Joint Zone One and Zone Two meeting

I attended the LGNZ meeting on 11 May travelling to Manukau on the new train service. At the meeting, Mike Cohen reported back on behalf of Local Boards. He highlighted his views oon the restructuring issues and gave the example of the parks budget, which does not provide the Boards with any incentive to find efficiencies and cost savings. However if Boards seek improvements this has to be found from the Board’s budget. I was also interested in the update from TRAFINZ (the New Zealand Local Authority Traffic Institute) that represents local authority views on road safety and traffic management in New Zealand. Like the Board, TRAFINZ supports speed violations being delegated from the Police to Local Authorities.

The Love NZ public place recycling manager gave an update on the Love NZ nationwide recycling initiative, which is co-funded by Central government and industry through the Glass Packaging Forum. In the first 6 months including through the RWC, the Love NZ Board claim to have diverted over 1000 tonnes of packaging from landfill through the Love NZ recycling bins. It was confirmed at the meeting that Glass Packaging Forum does not support container deposit legislation which is considered to be the most effective means of reducing packaging waste.

Local Board workshops and meetings

Attended:

  •  All 3 Local Board workshops held during the month on 1, 15 and 22 May
  • Parnell Festival of the Roses meeting to hear the results of the event assessment survey
  • Art in the Square – meeting to discuss ideas for the activation of Newmarket Station Square Herne Bay Residents Association meeting – regarding the Wellington Street on ramp on 4 May
  •  Myers Park Development Plan meeting 4 May (part only)
  • Meeting with Puketapapa and Albert Eden Local Boards to discuss the development a pilot resource recovery centre on 7 May
  • Meeting with a member of the public concerned with the level of spitting in the city centre that creates a hazard for those using walking sticks Meeting to discuss the Local Board transport advocacy for inclusion in the Local Board Agreement
  • Draft LTP – Budget & Advocacy Finalisation in preparation for the Local Board public business meeting
  •  Meeting at Ponsonby Intermediate to discuss plans for the launch of the Board’s smokefree park signage on World smokefree day Local Board business meeting in Parnell on 8 May
  • Public Art Workplans for 2012/13 on 9 May
  • Visit to Auckland University of Technology to be briefed on the contribution made by AUT on 9 May
  • Hīkoi with Waitemata Local Board members and Malcolm Patterson on 10 May to discuss the Māori heritage of the foreshore and how this can be respected and celebrated through developments such as an extended coastal walkway or arts trail Meeting with officers to discuss the planning for the smokefree launch
  • Meeting with AT Community Transport  and Barbara Holloway to discuss the trial of mini bike stands on K’rd Meeting with Heart of the City to discuss the “Parklet” proposal
  • LGNZ  Joint Zone One and Zone Two meeting on 11 May in Manukau
  • Communications meeting with the new Local Board Communications Advisor, Chris Baldock on 15 May  C
  • ommunity Development and Partnerships monthly meeting with Shane Ta’ala
  • Parks Maintenance contracts Local Boards cluster meeting on 16 May – a follow-up workshop to the one held on 6 December 2011 to discuss new parks maintenance contracts across Auckland and levels of service.
  • Waitemata Local Board’s “discussion” with the Governing Body on 16 May
  • Meeting with Judith Webster; Programme Manager City Transformation Projects and Michelle Prattley; Project Leader, City Transformation Projects to discuss the city centre noise project involving a range of mechanism to reduce and manage noise
  • Weona Walkway open day at Seddon Fields on 17 May
  • Meeting with Ponsonby Business Association to discuss a trial “bike parking corral” on Ponsonby Road
  • Catch up with Ashley Church, Newmarket Business Association General Manager (as alternate on the Board) on 18 May
  • Monthly transport portfolio catch ups with Auckland Transport on 24 May
  • Deliberations meeting on the draft Auckland Waste Management and Minimisation Plan on 29 May
  • Allocation of transport capital budgets to Local Boards cluster meeting at the Town Hall on 21 May
  • Waitemata Local Board – Parnell Festival of Roses presentation to the Parnell Community on 22 May
  •  Strategy and Finance Committee meeting attended from 1pm – until 7pm on 23 May (where the LTP budget was approved)
  • Meeting with Chorus to discuss UFB rollout in Waitemata Local Board area on 24 May
  • Good for business workshop planning meeting with AT on 28 May
  • Victoria Park Management Plan meeting on 30 May
  • Ann McAfee – International Advisor to the Unitary Plan presentation to Local Board members and Councillors on 30 May
  • Britomart site visit with Christopher Dempsey and Lorna Stewart to evaluate bike parking
  • Meeting with Jo Wiggins, David Parker and Brian Palmer of the Auckland Sport and Recreation Reference Group (ASRRG) on 31 May

Events and functions

I attended the following events and functions during May:

  • AECOM’s Global Cities Institutes book for Auckland Official Launch on 2 May at the District Dining Room- The book, Auckland, Connected, examines how the city can address the challenges and opportunities facing its urban development in four areas: economic growth, transportation, urban form and liveability.
  • Hospice Cuppa launch on 3 May with guest speaker Alan Whetton
  • Fair Trade Fortnight breakfast launch event at the Britomart Country Club on 4 May (at the invitation of the Fairtrade NZ)
  • Fairtrade presentation to the Mayor on 4 May at the Central Library
  • Official opening of Campbell Free Kindergarten on 5 May
  • A Midsummer night’s dream on 5 May (at the invitation of ATC)
  • Sustainable Business Network AGM on 9 May
  • Cycle Action Associates Breakfast at the Box café on 10 May
  • GLBA networking drinks on 10 May
  •  Community Tree planting at Harry Dansey Reserve, Freemans Bay on Saturday 12 May
  • Easy Green Living Show (including the Auckland Council’s retro fit your home and composting displays) and Green Drinks at Alexandra Park
  • SAVE TVNZ7 Public Meeting , Freemans Bay Community Hall
  • Waitemata Local Board Fairtrade Coffee break raising $100 for Oxfam
  • Carrot mob at Cosset Café on Sunday 19 May
  • Auckland Conversation: How Effective Transport Planning and Efficient Public Transport have Transformed London, Councillor Daniel Moylan – Deputy Chairman Transport for London, Chairman of Urban Design
  • Launch of the Auckland Plan on 29 May at the Auckland Museum
  • Launch of smoke free signage at Waitemata Parks event on 31 May
  • Cycle Action Auckland, NZTA and Auckland Transport presentation –  North-western Cycleway connection to Beach Road

Monthly Board Report – May 2012

Covering activities from 1 April – 30 April 2012

Portfolio reports

Transport

RLTP On behalf of the Board I presented, with member Dempsey, to the Auckland Transport hearings on the draft Regional Land Transport Programme (RLTP).  We raised a number of issues with the draft document in particular the failure to align high-level plans and strategies that drive investment with local board plans and priorities. We confirmed our support for projects that align with local board priorities such as the City Rail Link, and integrated ticketing as well as those projects in our local board plan and agreement (such as Franklin Road upgrade, school travel planning and cycleway development). Unfortunately there is a discrepancy between the level of attention to active transport in the draft RLTP and the actual level of funding. We asked for the following projects to be specifically included in the RLTP:

  • Auckland Harbour Bridge pathway
  • Green links
  • Slower speed zones
  • City Centre Master Plan and Waterfront plan transport projects

We also asked for the safety and minor improvements budget to be increased as local boards are most likely to look to this fund to achieve transport priorities.

Getting Auckland Moving – Alternative Funding for Transport Discussion Document- I worked on the Board’s feedback on the Discussion Document which is attached to the agenda. The feedback notes that the extent of the funding gap has been created due to the government’s failure to contribute Auckland’s share of the GPS for Land Transport Funding to transport projects that will significantly advantage Auckland such as the CRL.

Auckland Transport – draft Statement of Intent – The Board provided comments on the draft Statement of Intents for all of the Council Controlled Organisations (attached to the Agenda). I particularly focused on the Auckland Transport SOI which in its current form provides insufficient direction to AT and must be strengthened in order to give effect to the vision and priorities of the Auckland Plan and the transport priorities of the region’s 21 local boards.

Monthly transport update

The monthly Transport catch up was held with the Transport portfolio (attended by myself and Member Moyle) and relevant officers from Auckland Transport on 26 April. The issues discussed are reported back monthly by AT on our public agenda.  Specific issues include:

  • Walking and Cycling improvements in the Domain – The transport portfolio is supportive of the proposals so far including speed calming measures every 100 metres, 6 new raised pedestrian crossing points, an uphill cycle lane on Lower Domain Drive and a cycle lane from Park Road through to below the museum
  • St Mary’s Bay parking trial – signage is due to be installed on 23 July 2012
  • Eden Quarter Parking Review  – in response to a request from businesses and residents to address commuter parking issues and to provide more business parking

Parnell roundabout -Parnell Inc has raised objections to the proposed Parnell roundabout at the intersection of Parnell Road and Parnell Rise as they consider the roundabout will increase congestion on Parnell Road. A meeting was held with AT and members of Parnell Inc on 18 April (member Dempsey attended for the Board) Next steps: AT is in the process of responding to a LGOIMA request from Parnell Inc relating to the proposal.

Wellington Street off- ramp – The newly formed Herne Bay Residents Association has raised concerns about the increase of traffic on Curran Street due to the closure of the Wellington Street on ramp. I attended a meeting for residents at NZTA with representatives of Auckland Transport. NZTA are studying the impact of the closure on the surrounding area and have undertaken to consult with stakeholders on any proposal going forward. Next steps: Awaiting a response from NZTA to the results of their study. The need for the speed limit enforcement on Curran Street to be raised directly with the Police by AT.

K’rd over bridge –  I met with Barbara Holloway on 20 April to discuss the incorrect installation of the metal panels on the K’rd over bridge which was completed in August 2011. The original design was intended to provide pedestrians with a view to the North Shore from the bridge. Unfortunately Opus has installed the panels so that the view is obscured for most of the length of the bridge and from the seating area that was specifically installed for the view. Next Steps: Stephen Rainbow has been requested to confirm how AT intends to resolve this issue.

Community

LTP Hearings – The draft Long Term Plan 2012-2022 hearings were heard by the Board on 19 April with a number of thoughtful presentations. It is of concern that submitters were given a very short notice period about the hearings date which reduced the number of submitters who were able to attend. Deliberations on the submissions were held at our Local Board Workshop on 24 April.

Campbell Free Kindergarten – Planning has been underway during April for the open day at the newly restored Campbell Free Kindergarten in Victoria Park to be held on Saturday 5 May. Feedback is being sought from the community about possible uses for this historic building.

Community Assistance Policies  -During April Auckland Council consulted on three new region-wide policies relating to how Auckland Council provides community assistance; the draft Community Occupancy Policy, draft Facility Partnership Policy and draft Community Funding Policy (consultation is open until 18 May on this policy). A notice went out to the Board’s community database from me and member Reade as the Community Portfolio.

Grey Lynn Business Association

I attended one of the GLBA’s fortnightly meetings in April.

Community Grants

The Committee met to consider applications for the third and final round of the community grants funding 2011/12. A total of $25,345 was recommended in grants to the Waitemata Local Board ordinary meeting on 10 April 2012.  The minutes of the meeting are attached to the agenda.

Isthmus Local Board Joint Funding Committee

Community Group Assistance Fund (Round 2) – The total funding pool available for 2011/2012 was $450,000. Of this, $435,000 was available for the isthmus area to be distributed over two funding rounds in the 2011/2012 financial year. The first round of CGAF opened on 25 June 2011, closed on 29 July 2011, and funded 22 groups totalling $205,741. The second round of CGAF opened on 2 December 2011 and closed on 20 January 2012. Council received 106 applications from 97 groups requesting a total of $1,364,696.83. Officers assessed all applications and presented their recommendations to the Committee at a workshop meeting held on 16 March 2012. The joint funding committee approved the allocation of the second and final round of funding of $229,259 at its meeting on 26 April. Auckland City Cultural Heritage Fund Allocation – The Isthmus Local Board Joint Funding Committee meeting considered 10 applications for funding from $21,250 available for allocation for the remainder of the 2011/2012 financial year from Cultural Heritage Fund.   Of the 7 applications recommended by officers for approval 4 were within the Waitemata Local Board area.

Other board activities

Local Board workshops and meetings

Attended:

  • Meeting to discuss the draft Statement of Intent board feedback on 3 April ·
  • Fairtrade meeting on 3 April to discuss a Council event to be attended by the Mayor to announce the Council’s Fairtrade status ·
  • Governing Body Transport Committee on 3 April ·
  • Leys Institute Gym meeting with parents and Lyn Burrows ·
  • Meeting with Ants Hawke from Hapai Te Hauora Tapui Ltd ·
  •  Local Board business meeting in Grey Lynn on 10 April ·
  • Parnell Roundabout meeting with transport officers on 16 April ·
  • Wellington Street off- ramp meeting with Herne Bay Residents Association representatives, NZTA and Auckland Transport officers (hosted by NZTA) on 16 April ·
  • Meeting with representatives from Auckland Council Investments Limited and Ports of Auckland to discuss future POAL plans on 17 April ·
  • Campbell’s Free Kindergarten – Community Consultation process meeting on 23 April ·
  • Waitemata Local Board workshops on 3, 17 and 24 April ·
  •  Communications update with Kim Reed and the Chair on 24 April ·
  • RLTP hearings in Henderson on 24 April ·
  • ATEED events briefing on 24 April ·
  • Monthly transport portfolio catch ups with AT on 26 April ·
  • Isthmus Joint Funding Committee Meeting on 26 April ·
  • Alternative Funding meeting on 26 April to finalise feedback on the Discussion Document ·
  • City Centre Master plan meeting on 27 April

Events and functions I attended the following events and functions during April ·

  • High Tea at the Auckland Museum hosted by the Museum Circle on Sunday 1 April (at the invitation of the Museum Circle) ·
  • Simon Shepheard In Retrospect opening Bath Street Gallery on Tuesday 3 April ·
  • Annette Isbey Past & Present at Warwick Henderson Gallery ·
  •  Opening of T.Whites every day bike shop on Symonds Street ·
  • Nicole Foss presentation hosted by Grey Lynn 2030 at the Grey Lynn RSC on 16 April ·
  •  Wind in the Willows performance (at the invitation of Tim Bray) ·
  • Blessing of the Tepid Baths on Monday 23 April ·
  • Represented the Board with Member Moyle to present a wreath on behalf of the Board at the Anzac Day 2012 Civic Service ·
  • Attended the Grey Lynn RSC parade and ANZAC day ceremony ·
  • Meeting of the Western Bays Community Group on 30 April

I attended the Australasian Permaculture Convergence in Turangi from 11-15 April. A report on this conference will be attached to my June Board report.

I enjoyed Easter on Waiheke where I was impressed with the new bike racks on buses and commend Fullers and the Waiheke Local Board for supporting this initiative.

Monthly Board Report – April 2012

Monthly report covering activities from 1 March – 31 March 2012

Portfolio reports

Transport

RLTP-  I worked with officers and member Dempsey to finalise the Board’s feedback on the draft Regional Land Transport Programme (RLTP).  We raised a number of issues with the draft document in particular the failure to align high-level plans and strategies that drive investment with local board plans and priorities. We also noted the absence of City Centre Master plan and Waterfront plan transport projects which we believe should be included as the RLTP is required to cover all transport activities in the Auckland region. A copy of the submission is attached to the agenda.

Proposed Traffic and Speed Limit Bylaws –  Feedback was also provided in March on the proposed Traffic and Speed Limit Bylaws. Our submission included a request that the clause allowing AT to make some roads and shared spaces one-way for motor vehicles, also provides for two-ways for cyclists and other active transport modes (e.g. contra-flows).

Report back from 2Walk and Cycle conference 22-24 February, Hastings – Member Dempsey has prepared a comprehensive report back on the 2Walk and Cycle Conference I also attended in Hastings (22-24 February). As he concludes in the report there are several key messages:

  • Cycling and walking offers health benefits far in excess of costs (this requires a “whole of government” approach to invest in future proofing cities to reduce diseases of modern living)
  • It is important to properly fund infrastructure to secure these substantial benefits (we saw the direct benefits in Hawkes Bay where the installation of cycle lanes and pathways is resulting in huge increases in everyday cycling for transport and cycle tourism).
  • Political leadership is needed in supporting the critical development of cycling/walking infrastructure.

School bike tracks – I had the opportunity to attend the opening of Wellsford Primary School’s Te Huanui Cycle Track on 9 March at the invitation of Harbour Sport. This is only the second track in Auckland based on the Bike-On initiative developed in Hastings by Paul McArdle to get kids back on bikes and exercising in a safe environment. As Auckland Transport reported at the Regional Walking and Cycling Forum on 13 March they are supporting the development of more bike tracks and will shortly be releasing a “How to” manual for schools. In the Waitemata Local Board area I have been involved with a group assisting Grey Lynn School to install a bike track around the school grounds. However this project has now been put on hold while new classrooms and a hall development are underway.

Monthly transport updates –  Transport catch ups were held with the Transport portfolio and relevant officers from Auckland Transport on 1st March (postponed from February) and 23 March. The issues discussed are reported back monthly by AT on our public agenda.

Parking at the zoo –  On 19 March I met with the CEO of Auckland Zoo and Natalie Hansby, Manager, Visitor Experience and Business Development to discuss the traffic calming proposed by AT on Motions Road and the installation of a signalised intersection at Great North Road/Motions Road Next steps: A number of actions arose from the meeting including improvements to the bus stops servicing the Zoo and a longer term plan to provide for parking for the wider precinct.

Parnell roundabout  – AT have proposed a roundabout at the intersection of Parnell Rise and Parnell Road in order cope with the increase in the number of cars expected to be generated from the new Geyser development. On 26 March I met with representatives from Parnell Inc, AT and the Parnell Community Committee to discuss concerns raised by local businesses that the roundabout will increase congestion on Parnell Road. Next steps: AT is in the process of responding to a number of issues before taking this project further.

Parnell Station and the old Parnell tunnel – On 8 March Nick Seymour of Auckland Transport took members of the Board on a walk around the Mainland Stream site and to the entrance of the old tunnel. We had an opportunity to see the retaining work alongside the Waipapa stream as well as look around the Domain underpass and plans for the Domain ramps/stairs.

Community

LTP consultation –  Two community meetings were held in March to discuss the draft Long Term plan 2012-2022 and our draft Local Board Agreement which forms part of the draft LTP. The Mayor and Cr Lee attended the meeting on 1 March at the Grey Lynn RSC. I also visited the LTP road show at the Grey Lynn Farmers Market on 18 March. The feedback I have received from the community is that the online submission form was incredibly difficult to understand and was a deterrent to providing feedback on a huge number of important issues.

I had the opportunity to discuss the Board’s transport priorities that form part of the LTP in an interview on Bfm’s Green desk on 13 March.

Fairtrade – During March the Regional Development and Operations Committee and the Tenders and Procurement Subcommittee supported the Economic Forum’s recommendation to make Auckland Fairtrade. This is the final stage of the political process that was kicked off in May last year with the Waitemata Local Board’s resolution recommending to the Governing Body of Auckland Council that Auckland becomes a Fair Trade City.  Next steps: work is now underway within Auckland Council to obtain Fair trade status in time for Fair trade fortnight in May.

Hearings on the Auckland Council’s draft Waste Minimisation and Management Plan –  I attended the hearings with member Dempsey on 26 March as part of Local Board feedback on the draft plan. I also attended the public hearings to support the Grey Lynn 2030 waste away submission. The councillors on the hearings panel are to be congratulated for the enthusiasm and genuine interest with which they are receiving submissions which has made submitters feel part of a robust and transparent process.

Other issues relevant to the Community portfolio – A range of meetings were attended during March relevant to the Community portfolio – these are listed below

Grey Lynn Business Association

Attended one of the GLBA’s fortnightly meetings in March. I am following up on a number of issues for GLBA members including the beautification of the Surrey Cres shops, bike parking outside the new Kokako café and progress on the Williamson Ave Fire station development.

Newmarket Business Association – Attended the presentation to the Board on the NBA’s strategic plan and current initiatives. I also attended the NBA’s fashion in the street event on 24 March.

Other board activities

Local Board workshops and meetings

Attended:

  • Monthly transport portfolio catch ups with AT on 1st and 23rd March
  • Meeting to discuss allocation of Waitemata LB’s  LIPS and Discretionary CAPEX on 1 March
  • Meeting with Kiwirail to discuss use of old Parnell Rail tunnel as a connection to Newmarket (part of the Board’s “green link” aspirations)
  • A number of RLTP discussion meetings to prepare our submission on the draft RLTP
  • Local Board engagement as part of the LTP consultation at the Grey Lynn RSC attended by the Mayor and Cr Lee on 1 March and on 6 March at the Board offices, Graham Street
  • Transport Committee meeting on 6 March including presentations by Cycle Action Auckland and the Greenways Project
  • Tour of Highwic House and a presentation over morning tea hosted by Cheryl Laurie, Manager Highwic
  • Waitemata Local Board workshops on 6 March , 20 and 27  March
  • Regional Walking and cycling forum on 13 March
  • CBD advisory board meeting (in the absence of the Chair)
  • Local Board business meeting in Grey Lynn on 13 March
  • Isthmus Joint Funding Committee Workshop
  • Chinese Garden site in Western Springs Park – briefing by Shyrel Burt on 19 March
  • Parnell Trust – Community Facilities City Centre area meeting with Phillippa Pitcher and Anne Barrowclough
  • Tepid Baths Presentation to Waitemata Local Board
  • Delegations to Chief Executive – workshop on 20 March with the Auckland Council executive team and local board members from Waitemata, Albert- Eden and Waiheke Local Boards
  • Working lunch with directors and senior team of Waterfront Auckland on 22 March
  • LanzaTech & opportunities to support growth in Auckland meeting hosted by ATEED
  • Meeting with Geoff Chamberlain and Kate Roberts to discuss medium-long term library development in the Wynard Quarter, the Parnell Library lease and also the Grey Lynn and Leys Institute libraries on 22 March. ·
  • EDS strategy workshop for local board members to discuss issues with Councillors and Harvey Brookes
  • Local Boards Treaty Settlements briefing on 26 March
  • Auckland Conversation on 28 March – 10 presentations from 10 cities moderated by Greg Clark (part of the Sea Edge symposium for waterfront development leaders)
  • Governing Body meeting on 29 March for signing off the Auckland Plan – travelled to the Manukau Chamber with Member Dempsey by bike and train in recognition of the Plan’s aim to create the world’s most liveable city Communications update with Kim Reed and the Chair
  • Meeting with Tricia Reade to meet the new community lease advisor Local Boards Unitary Plan Symposium on 30 March
  • Meeting with Emily Harris from Urban Pantry to discuss a community garden on the Cross Street car park off K’rd

Events and functions

I attended the following events and functions during March:

  • Launch of Seaweek at Auckland Zoo
  • Try my Bike at the Lake House in Takapuna (an Auckland Transport event in association with Frocks on Bike)
  • International Women’s Day Celebration at Khartoum Place on 8 March
  • Pacifika festival at Western Springs
  • Walk to work day breakfast at Pigeon Park
  • Cycle Action’s associates breakfast
  • Chairman’s inaugural lunch at the Voyager Museum
  • Volvo Ocean Race Auckland Leg Four Prize giving Dinner
  • Movies in the Park in Grey Lynn
  • Ponsonby Market Day
  • AT’s family fun bike day
  • NBA’s fashion in the street
  • Cycle Style (an Auckland Transport funded event in association with Frocks on Bike)
  • Launch of the Social Entrepreneurs School. Opening on The Kitchen – a new shared work space for social entrepreneurs
  • Cycle Action public meeting
  • Richmond Road School gala on Saturday 31 March

Monthly Board Report – March 2012

Report to the March 2012 meeting: Covering activities from 1 February – 29 February 2012

Portfolios

Transport (West including Regional portfolio) with Greg Moyle Community (including Regional portfolio) with Tricia Reade Chair, Grants Committee Positions: Grey Lynn Business Association, Newmarket Business Association (alternate)

Portfolio reports

Transport At the beginning of February I worked to finalise the list of initiatives and projects detailed in our draft Local Board Agreement (included in the draft Long-Term Plan 2012-2022) that we will be advocating to Auckland Transport to deliver during 12/13 (the draft was agreed to at our business meeting on 14 February). The Transport Portfolio took the view that a prescriptive transport list is required in the terms of the agreement to best ensure that Auckland Transport will deliver on the community outcomes outlined in our Local board Plan.

I have included the full list taken from the draft agreement in my report below for ease of reference as it is very difficult to locate this part of the document in the draft LTP on the Auckland Council website. (From page Vol 4, chapter 26 page 365) Advocacy

Some of the initiatives and priorities contained within Waitemata’s Local Board Plan fall outside the decision-making responsibilities or budgets of local boards. These will require decisions from the governing body, council-controlled organisations (CCOs) or other agencies. The Waitemata Local Board will advocate for the following initiatives:

Auckland Transport

1. Improve cycle infrastructure through an increase in connected, dedicated cycleways a. Auckland Transport to deliver an initial dedicated cycleway project in the area of Surrey Crescent including from Garnet Road to Great North Road / Williamson Avenue and from the Richmond Road shops to Surrey Crescent.

The form could be any of the following: · cycle lanes protected behind parked cars cycle lanes protected behind low, intermittent kerbing / traffic islands · Copenhagen lanes / raised lanes · high-quality shared path / two-way cycleway with physical separation (southern side – less · side-roads).

b. Auckland Transport to continue the delivery of the below projects, already under consideration:

i. Carlton Gore Road (painted bike lanes currently planned) ii. Beach Road, linking the Northern Western Cycleway, through the Central Motorway Junction, with Tamaki Drive and Parnell Station iii. Parnell to the City Centre walk/cycleway, through the new underpass south of the Parnell Train Station iv. Nelson & Hobson Street (with separated two-way cycleways, as described in the City Centre Masterplan) v. Wellesley St connection to Auckland Domain under Symonds St overbridge.

2. Slow traffic on residential streets and at local shopping centres: a. Auckland Transport and the Board to work together on identifying traffic calming measures for the shopping areas in Parnell, Ponsonby, Karangahape Road and Richmond Road to support 40 km/h zones. This would include for example, raised crossings, raised intersections and kerb build-outs to narrow the road.

b. Auckland Transport to trial a 40km/h (or even 30km/h) speed zone for a residential area for example the area west of Ponsonby Road (between Richmond Road and Jervois Road where the speed environment is already below 40km/h).

c. Auckland Transport to implement the city centre 30km/h speed zone (as described in the City Centre Master Plan).

3. Install advance cycle stop boxes with feeder lanes Auckland Transport to install advance cycle stop boxes with feeder lanes in the following locations: i. Williamson Avenue northeast coming onto Ponsonby Road ii. College Hill Road westbound coming onto Ponsonby Road iii. Tamaki Drive, westbound at The Strand iv. St Stephen’s Avenue westbound coming onto Parnell Road v. Carlton Gore Road westbound onto Park Road vi. Karangahape Road eastbound at Symonds Street, onto the Grafton Bridge vii. Great North Road eastbound coming on to Karangahape Road.

4. Review and improve traffic management in Auckland Domain Auckland Transport to improve walking and cycling access to and around the Domain, while discouraging commuter parking use of the Domain through: i. Implementation of a parking scheme for the Domain that works to discourage commuter parking (e.g. through pricing) ii. Improving walking and cycling options through the Parnell-City Centre walk/cycleway and Carlton Gore Road (cycle lanes and the pedestrian crossing over Carlton Gore Road at George Street concept).

5. Conduct an audit of intersections that can be improved for pedestrians Auckland Transport to conduct an audit of intersections in substantial foot traffic areas and develop solutions to improve safety and mobility for pedestrians. This includes: all intersections with left–turn slip lanes and no pedestrian facility e.g. Mayoral Drive/Albert Street, Mayoral Drive/Vincent Street; Beach Road to Tangihua Road, and from Tangihua Road to Beach Road other slip lanes with no pedestrian facility e.g. Albert with Wyndham, Victoria and Wellesley streets intersections with long pedestrian crossing delays, eg Curran Street and Jervois Road, St Marys Bay Road, College Hill in Ponsonby.

In addition to the examples above, this list includes for priority investigation the following dangerous intersections: i. Victoria Street East / Bowen Avenue (lack of crossing options, etc) ii. Carlton Gore Road / George Street (pedestrian crossing over Carlton Gore, slowing traffic into and out of George Street – under investigation) iii. Union Street / Hobson Street (improving traffic phasing for pedestrians crossing over Hobson Street) iv. Left-turn slip from Hobson Street onto Pitt Street v. Left-turn slip from Nelson Street onto Victoria Street West vi. Beach Road / Britomart Place / Fort Street (lack of crossing options, opportunities for removal of slips) vii. Parnell Rise / Parnell Road viii. Symonds St on to Southern Motorway (no pedestrian crossing) ix. Left-turn slip from Symonds St onto Karangahape Road x. Left-turn from Parnell Road to Ayr Street.

6. Develop and deliver a Master Plan for Ponsonby Road Auckland Transport to continue the development of the Masterplan for Ponsonby Road, taking a complete street/living arterial approach to meet the community’s desired outcomes (eg, slower traffic, pedestrian friendly, heritage protection and improved urban design) in conjunction with urban design officers at Auckland Council.

7. Develop a Master Plan for Richmond Road Auckland Transport to develop a Masterplan for Richmond Road taking a complete street/living arterial approach to meet the community’s desired outcomes (eg slower traffic, pedestrian friendly, improved urban design), taking into account previous research including the 2011 safety audit. The plan will then be delivered in the 2013-2014 financial year.

8. Upgrade Franklin Road Auckland Transport to undertake the planned upgrade of Franklin Road to provide for safe and continuous walking and cycling pathways from Ponsonby Road to Victoria Park including continuous pedestrian facilities (ie, an unbroken footpath on both sides of the road) across all side streets, driveways and intersections (for example by installing raised tables).

9. Develop and implement a residential parking zone scheme for the central Auckland suburbs Auckland Transport to develop and implement a residential parking zone scheme to manage the problem of commuter parking for residents in central Auckland suburbs.

10. Support of other (non-transport) draft local board agreement priorities Auckland Transport to support other Waitemata Local Board agreement priorities including: · Support the introduction of three swales in the Local Board area · Support delivery of green walls, roofs and community gardens on Auckland Transport assets e.g. car park buildings · Support development of green links connecting parks and open spaces. Feedback on the draft Local Board Agreement transport initiatives can be provided as part of the LTP consultation until 23 March (refer http://www.aucklandcouncil.govt.nz/EN/AboutCouncil/PlansPoliciesPublications/Long_term_plan/Pages/haveyoursay.aspx) Consultation on the draft Regional Land Transport Programme (RLTP) is being undertaken alongside the Long-term Plan. The RLTP will summarise the transport priorities for Auckland over the next 10 years so the Transport Portfolio is working to ensure that our local board priorities are also included in this document. I attended the cluster workshop on 2 February for Auckland Transport to inform all Local Boards about the RLTP as well as a presentation from the Bylaws review team on the preliminary consultation on a Speed Limits Bylaw and a Traffic Bylaw.

As part of February’s Bike wise month I attended the launch of Auckland Transport’s summer cycling guide in Aotea Square and the Go by Bike Breakfast on 15 February. I attended the Walking and Cycling Conference in Hastings (22-24 February) with Christopher Dempsey (a full report will be attached to our April agenda). In February I also attended the Governing Body’s Transport committee.

Community Auckland Council’s consultation on the draft Long Term plan 2012-2022 commenced at the end of February. For the Board this involves hosting 3 community meetings starting in Parnell on 28 February. I presented on behalf of the Board with an overview of the initiatives in our draft Local Board Agreement which forms part of the draft LTP. Consultation is open until 23 March.

At the Economic Forum on Monday 13 February we moved closer to Auckland becoming Fairtrade. I spoke to the Forum in support of the Board’s resolution passed in May 2011 (WTM/2011/85)That the Waitemata Local Board recommends to the Governing Body of Auckland Council that Auckland becomes a Fair Trade City.

The Economic Forum voted to recommend to the Regional Development and Operations Committee and the Tenders and Procurement Subcommittee that Auckland Council support Auckland being a Fairtrade region.(Resolution number ED/2012/7) On 28 February I presented with Tricia Reade the Board’s community initiatives and projects to the Social and Community Development Forum at the invitation of the Chair, Cr Casey. During February I also contributed to the Board’s submission on Auckland Council’s draft Waste Minimisation and Management Plan (attached to the March agenda).

Other board activities

Local Board workshops and meetings

Attended:

  • Local Boards cluster workshop on 2 February
  • Waitemata Local Board workshop on 7 February
  • Meeting to discuss the location of water fountains (project led by Jesse Chalmers)
  • Local Boards cluster meeting for an update on the current position with regards to financial contributions – how they are collected and being spent in the legacy areas and a summary of the Draft Integrated Contributions Policy 2012 that will be consulted on as part of the LTP process.
  • Meeting with Toni Giacon; Acquisitions and Disposals Advisor, ACPL to discuss the potential disposal of 3 Ponsonby Road.
  • Meeting on 10 February with a multi-disciplinary team from Auckland Transport, Auckland Council, and a representative of the Auckland War Memorial Museum and Councillors Lee and Coney to discuss issues associated with cycling and pedestrian safety through the Auckland Domain.
  • Meeting and lunch with Civic contractors on 17 February
  • Local Board business meeting in Parnell on 14 February
  • Waitemata Local Board workshop on 28 February

Events and functions

  • I attended the following events and functions during February:
  • Lantern Festival in Albert Park
  • Wellington International Ukulele Orchestra concert at the invite of Q Theatre
  • Playing in the Streets event in Queen Street (sponsored by the Board) on Sunday 19 February

Monthly Board Report February 2012

Covering activities 1 December 2011 – 31 January 2012

Portfolio Reports

Transport

In early December I attended the Auckland Walking Seminar – stepping into the future hosted by Auckland Transport. Guest speaker Rodney Tolley outlined why a good walking environment is a pre-condition for an economically healthy city.  (resolution WTM 2011/321 approved the registration costs be paid from the professional development budget).  A full report of this seminar is marked as Attachment A.

During December I also attended:

  • Meeting with Auckland Transport for an update on the response to the revised 020 bus route consultation and proposed changes to the service;
  • The quarterly Walking and Cycling Forum hosted by Auckland Transport with a range of presentations
  • Parnell District School Travel plan launch on 7 December
  • Auckland Rail  electrification project update
  • Governing Body’s Transport committee

In December new textured surfaces were installed on Ponsonby Road by Auckland Transport at the request of the Transport portfolio to encourage motorists to drive to the 40km speed limit.

On 17 January a briefing was held with board members to outline the feedback from the St Marys Bay resident parking scheme consultation.

The Transport portfolio monthly briefings with Auckland Transport representatives re-commenced on 26 January.   Full details of current proposals and issues are outlined in Auckland Transport’s monthly report attached to the Board agenda (available at www.aucklandcouncil.govt.nz/waitemata under agendas).

Community

The community portfolio is working to identify what Council property is available to be used for community facilities and to ensure that potential community purposes take precedence over commercial arrangements. To this end it was confirmed at our December Board meeting that we are looking to the community lease team to consider options for the Campbell Free Kindergarten (newly restored by NZTA) by holding an open day to gather feedback from the community on possible uses.

At our December Board meeting we also took further steps towards becoming an accessible local board. With the support of Member Thomas we have requested Democracy Services to report back on options to ensure all online content is fully accessible electronically.

I attended

  • Meeting with the  Manager Community Development and Partnerships to discuss programmes
  • Neighbours Day Aotearoa  planning meeting on 8 December
  • Open day at The Kitchen –  a new shared working space for social entrepreneurs in Ponsonby

I also attended the Getting Our Rubbish Sorted – Seminar organised by Civic Trust Auckland on 17 January and have taken a close interest in submissions on the Auckland Council’s draft Waste Minimisation and Management Plan which were due by 31 January.

Grants Committee 

The Committee met to consider applications to the second round of community grants funding 2011/12. A total of $25, 345 was recommended in grants to the Waitemata Local Board ordinary meeting on 13 December 2011. The minutes of the meeting are available here.

http://www.aucklandcouncil.govt.nz/SiteCollectionDocuments/aboutcouncil/localboards/waitematalocalboard/meetings/waitematalbgrantscommin20111205.pdf

Grey Lynn Business Association

Attended the GLBA networking drinks and a strategy session with committee members in December and the first meeting of the year for the GLBA committee on 24 January.

Newmarket Business Association

I attended the final meeting of the year as the alternative on the Board (thank you NBA for the bottle of wine!).

Other board activities

Local Board Workshops

Attended:

  • Waitemata Local Board workshop  on 6 December
  • Waitemata Local Board workshop on 22 December to work on the draft Local Board Agreement
  • Waitemata Local Board workshop on 31 January

Professional development

I attended:

  • the IPANZ Auckland One Year on Conference on 13 December
  • A Community Economic  Development /Social Economy Forum
  • Auckland Conversation – Peter Gluckman: Innovation through science

Official Engagements

Represented the Board, together with member Dempsey, at the 3rd Auckland Northern Battalion Group Charter Parade on 3 December 2011

Events and functions

I attended the following events and functions during December:

  •  The Outlook for Someday film challenge awards at the Aotea Centre
  • Franklin Road Christmas Lights
  • The Twits at Q Theatre (at the invite of ATC)
  • Heart of the City Christmas party
  • GLBA networking drinks on 8 December
  • Grey Lynn Christmas Cheer street party on 9 December
  • Ponsonby Market Day
  • Telstraclear Clip on Challenge – bike ride over the Auckland Harbour Bridge with the Mayor on 11 December
  • Centenary Concert for  the100th Anniversary of the Town Hall on 14 December
  •  50th anniversary of St Joseph’s Parish, Grey Lynn service and lunch on 16 December.
  • Auckland Communities Foundation Christmas gathering

I also enjoyed everything the Auckland Waterfront has to offer on Auckland Anniversary day including the Regatta, Buskers Festival and Seafood Festival.

Monthly Board Report – December 2011

Covering activities from 1 November – 30 November 2011

Portfolio reports for the month

Transport

A number of matters are progressing with Auckland Transport. Full details of current proposals and issues are outlined in Auckland Transport’s monthly report attached to the Board agenda (available at www.aucklandcouncil.govt.nz/waitemataunder agendas). The Transport portfolio meets monthly with representatives from Auckland Transport. The November meeting was attended by myself (Transport Portfolio – West) and Christopher Dempsey and Rob Thomas (Transport Portfolio – East).  Issues covered at the meeting included:

  • New textured surface proposed for Ponsonby Road
  • Symonds St proposed 40km zone
  • Mid-block crossing proposed for Victoria Street West
  • Updates on parking design and proposed changes to parking restrictions in the Wynyard Quarter, Eden Terrace, Graham Street and St Marys Bay
  • Update from ARMA (AT’s contractor) regarding Bowen Street upgrade and proposals for Franklin Road

I also meet with Auckland Transport during the month to discuss the Regional Cycle Network (with Christopher Dempsey) and to progress the report to Vine Street residents on options available to ensure access to the street and sufficient on-street parking (with Greg Moyle) and to consider plans for the signalisation of the Motions Road/Great North Road intersection. At our September Board meeting ARMA and AT were asked to consider options for providing pedestrian facilities on Bowen Street as part of the street upgrade. Despite the goal of the City Centre Masterplan to make Auckland a pedestrian friendly city it is disappointing that after further investigation, Auckland Transport has decided not to make any changes to the initial design. Relevant to the Transport portfolio I also attended the Governing Body’s Transport committee on 18 November.

Community

We have worked to progress:

  • Input into the developing Community Assistance Framework
  • Options for supporting groups based within our area that are currently at risk due to missing out on Accommodation support funding
  • Proposals for the Masonic Lodge Salisbury Reserve Herne Bay- with a public consultation meeting held on 16 November
  • Feedback to Community Development Arts & Culture on the proposed Graffiti Vandalism plan
  • Issues relating to anti-social behaviour in the central city. I visited Divan Café in Exchange Lane to discuss issues experienced by this business.

We also met the new Programme Advisor Disability to discuss action for creating an accessible board and attended a regular monthly meeting with Community Developments and Partnerships Central. I also attended Mayor in the Chair at Wynyard Quarter on 1 November that marked the first anniversary of Auckland Council.

Grey Lynn Business Association

Attended the GLBA AGM on 3 November and was re-elected to the Board.  Attended the Community Safety Meeting organised by the GLBA on 4 November and the first meeting of the new board on 8 November.

Leadership support

Glenda Fryer, Luke Nuie, Pippa Coom and Jenni Goulding As Deputy Chair I supported the Chair in developing the board’s communications strategy with the Board communication’s advisor in particular to progress content for the Board’s advertorial which appeared for the first time in suburban newspapers during November. Worked to progress the Waitemata Local Board’s First Year Achievement’s Report and coordinated the launch of the Local Board plan on 29 November. I also attended the Local Board Chair’s forum meeting in November on behalf of the Chair.

Other board activities

Local Board Workshops Attended:

  • Waitemata Local Board workshop on 1 November
  • Waitemata Local Board workshop on 15 November
  • Half day workshop with Local boards and the Governing Body on 23 November on long-term plan issues including long -term plan matters such as the funding allocation and methodology, ten-year budgets for local activities, financial policies and issues for advocacy to the governing body and CCOs.

Meetings Attended:

  • Community Assistance Framework meeting on 2 November
  • Waitemata Local Board meeting on 8 November (leaving early to attend the SBN awards)
  • Introduction to the new Programme advisor disability and actions to become an accessible board on 2 November
  • Waste minimisation and resource recovery options within Waitemata with John Roscoe on 3 November
  • Green waste recycling presentation
  • Fortnightly communications update
  • Coastal Walkway project to discuss the board’s queries re progress on the coastal walkway project, and some certainty around the budget, timeframe and nature of the walkway
  • Public consultation meeting held on 16 November regarding Masonic Lodge Salisbury Reserve Herne Bay
  • Resource Recovery Centre feasibility with Warren Snow on 17 November
  • Board Chair’s meeting on 21 November (stand-in to the Chair)
  • Meeting with Parnell Inc. to discuss Local Board funding
  • Follow up on LTP and preparation for presentation to Governing Body

Professional development

Attended the lunchtime learning on 17 November with Jan Gehl “Auckland- Creating a City for People”. He particularly focused on the critical need for cycle infrastructure to transform a city.

Official Engagements Represented the Board at:

  • Awarding Enviroschools’ Green Gold to St  James  Kindergarten, Arch Hill (Attached and marked Attachment A is the speech given at the ceremony)
  • Pohutakawa for Peace Tree Planting Ceremony organised by the Peace Foundation at the Domain on 11 November (Attached and marked Attachment B is the short speech given at the planting)
  • Citizenship Ceremony (together with Christopher Dempsey)  at the Town Hall on Friday 18 November

Events and functions I attended the following during November:

  • MOTAT aviation hall opening
  • Launch of Art in the Dark and the event held on 11 and 12 November
  • Sleeping Beauty at the Civic (at the invitation of the Royal NZ Ballet)
  • Parnell Festival of the Roses on Saturday 5 November
  • Grey Lynn Park Festival (where I organised the Eco-space of Grey Lynn 2030)
  • Cycle Action November Associates Breakfast
  • SBN awards
  • Conscious Commuter Breakfast and the Sustainable City Showcase– all day attendance at Shed 10 on a Grey Lynn 2030 stand in the community space and ending with Green Drinks
  • St Matthew in the City Remembrance Day parade and service
  • Tamaki Drive Masterplan launch by the Orakei Local Board on 23 November
  • Cycle Action Auckland’s Christmas function
  • Waitemata Local Board plan launch on 29 November