Other Frequently Asked Questions
Ratepayers believe that the burden of the cost of mitigation should be equally shared.
This decision was made by the WDC Councillors – the LTCCP funding model was adopted and will be split per catchment, community and district. This is a benefit based model. Maps are available to identify what property is in which catchment.
Sewerage
Seepage from septic tanks is known to contribute to contamination of the lagoon – and pose a health hazard to other areas, although the full extent is not known.
We have been told a sewerage scheme is in the pipeline for Matata.
Has a timeframe been established for the installation of a sewerage scheme for Matata?
Yes. This project is planned for 2008-2009. This can be found in the current TCCP.
Central government funding (83%) has been applied for in advance for this project on behalf of the Matata community.
Can the Whakatane District Council (WDC) give an indication of when, where and what type of sewerage scheme will be installed?
Not at this early stage – the previous scheme will have to be completely reviewed given the Matata 2005 event. All elements – including site establishment, type of scheme and other key elements will need to be reviewed. The Matata community will be engaged to work through this process.
In the mean time what will be done about septic tanks which are not up to standard?
Individuals are required to look after these tanks. WDC can be requested to inspect these if there are any issues at any stage. A small rate charge could be employed to provide for an inspection process (e.g. annually) for all septic tanks in Matata at the request of the residents – the Community Board is one way to propose this request.
Footpaths, curbing and channelling
Following submissions to the Whakatane District Council (WDC) Annual Plan back in the 90’s WDC agreed to install $10,000 worth of footpaths each year, this has happened only twice.
The Residents Association were to prioritise the next stretch to be laid but they were never consulted.
TBA.
Will WDC compensate for those years when no work was undertaken in an effort to catch-up?
TBA.
Will WDC adhere to their agreed undertaking, in consultation with the community, from here-on?
Investigations to funding allocations will have to be made – all footpath maintenance funding for this year have been allocated. WDC is happy to look into this given the current situation.
Arawa Street footpaths are disgracefully “down at heel”. An up-grade of this, the main street, is required urgently.
Per above.
Village maintenance and beautification
As the gateway to the Eastern Bay, we wish to see the entire presentation of the village enhanced and up-graded. Ideas abound on what could and should be done but currently the image is one of down-at-heel neglect. A few measly Christmas lights which go up late, flags likewise, put up late, then not taken down until five months later, scruffy, broken footpaths, and a general air of neglect:
What support can Council provide?
The timely installation and removal of any festivities memorabilia in Matata. The Matata Regeneration Project will be offering the Community a number of opportunities to include ideas of the Gateway to the Eastern Bay of Plenty.
What are the various avenues of assistance which could help improve the image and overall presentation of the town?
The Matata Regeneration Project will be offering the Community a number of opportunities to include ideas of the Gateway to the Eastern Bay of Plenty. Whakatane District Council (WDC) is currently facilitating a programme with a range of organisations.
What landscaping projects could be undertaken in combination with the community?
This is for the Community to manage; the Matata Regeneration Project will be offering the Community a number of opportunities to include ideas of the landscaping projects needed in Matata.
And who can we rely on for help?
The council have already applied to EBOP for some assistance through the funding provided by the EEF (Environmental Enhancement Fund). This funding will be reviewed once the Matata Regeneration Project is further down the track and some design parameters for landscaping etc have been established.
Boffa Miskell (the Council’s planning partners and landscape architects), and a number of community organisations have offered assistance.
Planning and paying for the future of Matata
Many residents are fearful about the prospect of significant rate increases, particularly those on fixed incomes, and do not believe present residents should carry the majority of the huge burden resulting from the 18 May 2005 event.
Will the Council support the establishment of an integrated and time phased plan for the restoration and redevelopment of Matata with the costs spread over 50 years (as last year’s event is estimated to be a 50-300 year event)?
Funding will be based on 25 years – interest rates over longer periods are in accordance with Council Policy and prudent financial management principles.
Would Council provide a specific contact person to help resolve problems and attend to issues affecting Matata people; an advisory and liaison type person?
Yes.
Matata Regeneration Project Issues – Haydn Read (Project Manager)
Matata Facilities and Infrastructure Issues – Graham Smeaton (Chair, Edgecumbe Community Board).