Newsline 29 August 2024
Driver Licence Programme Proving a Hit
The Waimate District Council Driver Licence Programme has begun taking driving lessons, and bookings are open for more. The Mayors Taskforce for Jobs-led programme was set up to assist people to get their Class 1 licence to give them more options for employment.
SH82 Bridges To Be Replaced
The Elephant Hill and Waihao River North bridges on State Highway 82 are set to be replaced within the next three years as part of a broader investment plan by NZ Transport Waka Kotahi. These projects aim to improve the efficiency, resilience, and safety of the state highway network over the coming years.
Minister Invited to Discuss Water Challenges
Mayor Craig Rowley has extended an invitation to Local Government Minister Simeon Brown to visit the district for a firsthand look at rural water supply schemes. In a letter sent to the Minister last month, the Mayor emphasised the importance of these schemes to the local agricultural sector and raised concerns about the financial and operational challenges posed by new water quality regulations.
Dog Activities Summed Up
Council approved the Dog Control Annual Report 2023/24 at an Ordinary Council Meeting on 23 July. The report, which is required under the Dog Control Act 1996, provided an overview of the 2,866 dogs in the district. Impressively, for the third year in a row, the district's registration rate was 100% of known dogs.
Civil Defence Upskilling
In August and September, some Council staff are attending training sessions run by Emergency Management Canterbury. This training is provided to all councils in Canterbury free of charge. It upskills the participants and helps create connections with other councils which would be prepared to mobilise in the event of an emergency.
