22 March 2021
Media: Local Democracy Reporter
Topic: Open Spaces Level of Service Policy
Enquiry
I'm working on a story about the submissions on the draft Open Spaces Level of Service policy.
I note at the hearing Cornelius Papenfus said Grey Power did not support the council's direction regarding shared paths and wanted Lime scooters (when/if they're introduced) and skateboards barred from specific walking / mobility scooter paths in open spaces. He said "if there are elderly people involved, especially with walking aids or in wheelchairs, it's not very easy for them to get out of the way, even if it is a broader path."
He also wanted public toilets at all open spaces and suggested there are not enough public toilets in some public places in Rotorua.
What is the council's response to those views?
Have there been any further developments towards introducing Lime scooters to Rotorua since December?
Additionally Miriam Ruberl's submission sought the inclusion of public toilets, charging facilities for mobility scooters, a "free, modest hop on, hope off looping electric van service" (possibly driverless), seating at regular intervals, rain shelters, defibrillators, emergency telephones with direct links to police and ambulance, and drinking fountains in council open spaces. She also sought more information and maps of open spaces.
How likely are these to be implemented?
Ruberl also suggests the council fails to "comply with disability access standards" and has "substandard existing [foot]paths" - what is the council's response to these?
Response
Information provided:
The council organisation doesn't comment on people's views during consultation and/or ahead of any decision elected members may make in regards to policy. It's not appropriate to do that.
The formal process re consulting is:
- consultation is approved by elected members
- consultation period - people are invited to make submissions
- hearings - submitters have opportunity to be heard by elected members re their submission
- officers then collate and present a summary of the feedback and submissions and make recommendations
- elected members deliberate and make recommendation to Full Council
- decision by Full Council
This process began in November 2020 and hearings were held on 11 March 2021. The recommendation will go to the Strategy, Policy & Finance committee meeting in April for deliberations and then the decision will be made at the following full Council meeting (also in April).
For more information about the Draft Open Space Level of Service Policy visit https://letstalk.rotorualakescouncil.nz/draft-open-space-level-of-service-policy
Re: Lime Scooters - we are unaware of any new developments since your last enquiry about Lime Scooters however, the person who has been in contact with Lime is away from the office. We can double check when they return later in the week.