2nd birthday - an excellent result

Ruapehu Bulletin, Volume 9, Issue 415, 3 December 1991, Page 1 (Supplement)

2nd birthday - an excellent result

RATEPAYERS AND RESIDENTS of the Ruapehu District are shareholders in a commerciai operation worth in excess of $220 million, according to the Council's Annual Plan published recently under the new local government accountabiiity requirements.

And according to general manager Cliff Houston that is just one of a number of achievements Councii can be proud of as it celebrates its second anniversary this month. They include (as at June 30, 1991): A Increase in cash available (working capital) for operations of $1.2 million. * Programmes completed without raising a $0.5million loan approved by Councii. * Standardised method of rating implemented over the whole of the District. * Definition of Councii fixed and infrastructural assets valued at over $220 million. A Formation of Ruapehu Construction Limited which successfully tendered for State Highway maintenance contracts. * Reduction of total staff numbers required to carry out programmes from 138 to 127 full-time

equivalents during the year. The number of staff at November 1, 1989 was 150. * Publication and call for submissions on 1991/92 Annual Plan prior to close of 1991 financial year. Mr Houston said the Annual Plan sets out the process for maintaining and utilising assets in excess of $220 million. "Thus it is essential that the people of the District fully participate in the Annual Planning process so that their views can be made known and the best

results achieved for the community." Mr Houston said it was pleasing to note that while there were no submissions received on the 1990/91 Annual Plan, there were 17 submissions from individuals and community groups on the 1991/92 plan. "This shows that the public is coming to grips with the Annual Planning process and is starting to take an active interest in outcomes." It is through submissions on the Annual Plan that the Council's thoughts and directions can be influenced by the public. "It is vital that items of concern are brought to attention during the submission phase," said Mr Houston. It is not difficult to make a submission -a simple hand-written request often suffices, he said. The 1992/93 Annual Plan will be advertised for submissions in May next year. "Make sure your voice is heard at that time so differing views can be taken into account before final decisions are made," said Mr Houston. "The Annual Plan belongs to you -in the same way that you are a substantial shareholder in the District."