Message from the Mayor
Published on June 02, 2023
Kia ora
As we head into the winter season I want to take a moment to update you on some exciting news for our community for the coming years.
You might have read in the news the Minister of Transport Michael Wood has at last confirmed that the Ōtaki to North of Levin Expressway (Ō2NL) will be constructed. I’m sure you will agree that this is a significant milestone for our district and we’re excited to move forward with this vital infrastructure project. Not only does this announcement bring us a step closer to a safer, easier and faster journey between Levin and Wellington, but it will also be transformational in supporting economic growth and development for our district and even the wider region. Along with the recent Capital Connection rail announcement, this investment in the region will significantly benefit all in our rohe and will accommodate the expected future traffic volumes.
The project includes the construction of a four-lane expressway with a range of safety features, including median barriers, wider shoulders, and new intersections. I can assure you that we will work closely with the community and stakeholders during this time to minimise disruption and ensure everyone is informed of progress. Construction of the Ō2NL Expressway and the shared walking and cycling path is expected to begin in 2025 and is scheduled to be completed by 2029.
We’ve also received excellent news from Local Government New Zealand (LGNZ) that they’ve secured more funding for the Mayors Task Force for Jobs (MTFJ) Community Employment programme for the next two years.
Nationwide, Central Government has committed $10m to be allocated in year one and a further $8m for year two for the MTFJ programme that creates new employment opportunities for rangatahi and has proven to be a valuable initiative since its inception. Although the initiative focuses mainly on young people aged between 16 and 24 who aren’t engaged in education, employment or training, the programme aims to help anyone disadvantaged in the job market to help remove barriers to employment or training while providing a platform for job creation.
I’m proud to say that 267 people have registered locally with the Horowhenua MTFJ programme and the team has successfully filled more than 100 vacancies for the 2022/23 financial year. The success of this project is thanks to hard work, dedication and the power of collaboration, creating a bright future for young people.
Finally, I am pleased to announce that a historical decision was made on Wednesday with Council voting unanimously to keep the Levin Landfill closed. This was a key topic in the Long Term Plan Amendment and an incredibly significant decision for our district. On behalf of Council, I’d like to acknowledge our Iwi partners, and the many stakeholders involved in this lengthy and at times difficult process. We would also like to thank everyone who engaged with us regarding the future of the Levin Landfill.
Council also voted during deliberations on the Draft Long Term Plan 2021-2041 Amendment to leave the rating system as it currently is and requested that officers commit to further review the Rates Remission and Rates Postponement policies during the first quarter of 2023/2024 that considers options to address affordability. More decisions taken and what this means for the community will be shared with you in the coming weeks.
Until next time, stay well and stay warm.
Bernie Wanden