Council uses Concord for community concerns

Ruapehu Bulletin, Volume 14, Issue 684, 29 April 1997, Page 6

Council uses Concord for community concerns

Ever wondered what happens when you call the council to tell them that something is damaged, your road has a pot-hole or a water pipe breaks? They put iton Concord! Following the recent public meeting at the Ohakune Club at which a number of concerns were aired, most of which involved a lack of communication, the Bulletin approached the Ruapehu District Council toaskhow they handle information from the public. Council marketing manager, Bruce Rollinson explains the Council' s service system: "Concord, our service request system, is a computer programme that is used to log calls, whether that be by phone or over the counter. Once logged they are then sent by electronic format to the appropriate officer who receives it immediately and takes the necessary action which may include informing a contractor to fix the problem," said Mr Rollinson. "The big advantage with the system is that we can monitor progress and make sure we don't lose sight of issues. We are very confident the system will play an increasing role in assisting our customers (residents) to get a positive outcome."

The electronic file stays in the system until action is taken. Mr Rollinson said the system includes a function whereby the person who first advised the council will be contacted and told the outcome, if they wish. He said since Concord was implemented two years ago, Council has improved the service request process significantly and it looked forward to continued improvement. He also said the community can help the process by reporting any issues that arise to the council. "We welcome all calls as this is why the process was set up." Councillors and community board members already use the system to pass on information. An oft-heard call in meetings when a problem is discussed is "stick it on Concord". Community contacts Another way to get information to the right person within the council organisation is to call one of your local community board members or councillors. They can place your concern into the Concord system for you, or contact the officer direct. Waimarino councillors are: Ellen Gould, Ph 385-81 15.

John Compton, Ph 3854204. Bob Peck, Ph 385-4947. Waiouru councillors are: Bobby Vine, 387-6478. Sue Rodgers, 387-6774 National Park councillors are: Steve Mastrovich, 8922924 Warren Furner, 892-2782. Waimarino Community Board members are the councillors, plus: Colin Webb (board chairman), Ph 385-4502. AlfAlabaster.Ph 385-4532. Doug Bennett, 385-4504. Ray Berry, 385-4172 Robert Horne, 385-8684 Gary Rawnsley, 385-4442 Waiouru Community Board members are the councillors, plus: Murray Fitchett, 387-6218. Kerry Harding, 387-6052. Rod Hart, 387-6939. Abe Hepi, 387-6779. National Park Community Board members are the councillors, plus: Pat Coogan, 896-6247. JuneMathieson, 895-4520. Michael Petersen,8966270. Tony Parker, 892-2740.