The public will get its opportunity to provide feedback on the Central Otago District Council’s (CODC) proposed Long-Term Plan 2021-2031 (LTP), which opens this Friday 26 March. 

The Ka Aka Whakamua - Framing our Future consultation document, which outlines key issues for community feedback, will be available along with supporting information on Council's website and copies will be available at Council service centres and libraries.

Mayor Tim Cadogan is encouraging all of the Central Otago community to get involved.

"We want our Long-term Plan to provide some certainty of direction for our community in what are very uncertain times,” he says. 

“This LTP will steer Council and the work we undertake over the coming years for our community. 

“Now, more than ever, we are urging our community to get engaged, consider what we are proposing and tell us what they think.

“We want to keep our district moving, but need to know if our community is happy with the direction we are taking. 

“We are saying ‘whether you agree or disagree, or have an alternative suggestion to throw in the mix, we need to hear from you and be guided by you’.”

The five key issues that Council is calling for community views on during the consultation period are how a district museum function is delivered, how to progress the Cromwell Masterplan, and proposals to support three community-led projects – the Roxburgh community pool upgrade, Alexandra Riverside Park development, and the Omakau Community Hub.

Central Otago residents and ratepayers are encouraged to have their say on Council's consultation document by filling in the online feedback form at www.codc.govt.nz/framing-our-future. 

Those without online access can contact council for a hard copy submission form.

The public will have until Sunday 25 April to submit their views on the council’s proposed Long-term Plan consultation document, with the opportunity to be heard at a series of community board and Council meetings to consider feedback scheduled in May.

There will be opportunities throughout the consultation period for the public to engage with staff, local councillors and community board members about Long-term Plan topics and ask questions. 

They will include in-person events in each ward of the district, plus online and on-air events.

Community feedback will be used to develop the Long-term Plan 2021-2031, which will come into operation from July 2021.