In response to recent observations by Tamahere Community Committee (TCC) Chair Charles Fletcher, Waikato District Council (WDC) Councillor Crystal Beavis addresses key concerns facing the Tamahere/Woodlands ward, urging ratepayers to maintain constructive communication and understand the unique challenges the Council currently navigates.
Councillor Beavis acknowledges frustrations surrounding Tamahere's CCTV project, attributing delays to a prolonged wait for the Department of Internal Affairs (DIA) to release “Better Off” funding, followed by delays with reaching agreement with Hamilton City Council for live monitoring of CCTV feeds, which ultimately inflated project costs.
"In hindsight, allowing Tamahere to proceed independently [with its CCTV solution] from the beginning might have been preferable. However, delays forced WDC to consider a district-wide CCTV solution,” says Crystal Beavis. This approach is aimed to future-proof the system with potential real-time monitoring through Hamilton City Council. Though delays and rising costs have been frustrating, Councillor Beavis pledges ongoing support and exploration of alternative solutions.
TCC also has expressed concerns surrounding a local Reserve which has been under discussion and consideration for “years”, much to the frustration of Tamahere residents.
Addressing claims about increased Council staff numbers, Crystal Beavis clarifies that full-time equivalent (FTE) staff grew by 80 over three years, countering rumours of a much larger increase. This increase aligns with district growth, with FTE staff costs remaining steady at 20% of Council revenue.
Crystal Beavis also highlights the involvement of Maori councilors, who balance attending essential cultural events with Council duties. She notes that Council is working under immense legislative changes, rising capital costs, and recent infrastructure damage, all impacting project timelines and priorities.
While acknowledging the challenges faced by “newbie” councilors, Crystal Beavis says their dedication cannot be called into question. "I take this responsibility very seriously," she says, referencing her commitment to Tamahere’s community needs.
In conclusion, Councilor Beavis appeals for ongoing collaboration "Together, we can achieve long-term outcomes for Tamahere, despite current frustrations," she says.
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