Westland District Council is working to manage costs and reduce pressure on ratepayers, while continuing to deliver essential services.
At its 23 April Council meeting, Council reiterated the importance of prioritising work programmes and carefully sequencing projects, with a clear focus on avoiding unnecessary increases in debt.
Council also considered the Chief Executive’s quarterly report for January to March, which signalled a shift toward a more strategic, forward-looking approach. The intent is to move beyond retrospective reporting and provide a clearer view of progress, priorities and what is coming next.
Mayor Lash said the report remains relevant, and Councillor Martin supported making non-confidential information easier for the community to access.
To support this, a new communications resource will be coming on board shortly, helping provide clearer and more regular updates on what Council is delivering and progressing.
Alongside this work, Council is progressing the Annual Plan (currently out for consultation), preparing the Annual Report, and beginning early work on the next Long Term Plan.
Council agreed a set of updates to committee terms of reference, including amendments following the inaugural Risk and Assurance Committee meeting. It also updated the CCO Oversight Committee terms to reflect current structures and terminology.
In closing, the Mayor highlighted recent engagement across the district, including attendance at the Wildfoods Festival, and representing Westland in discussions with Ministers on fuel resilience and access to Westland, particularly in relation to emergency services.