Paula Thompson BOP Regional Councillor www.envbop.govt.nz

The Bay of Plenty Regional Council has reviewed its plans for the 2013/14 year .What we think is open for your comments from March 26 until April 26. If you are interested you can visit our website for more information.

The world of local government is changing. Government expects local government to deliver local services in the most cost effective way .There are reorganisation proposals from the Hawkes Bay and Northland lining up for consideration by the local government commission, and we can expect more as local government looks at how to best serve regional communities.

The Regional Council has built into its 10 year plan targets for savings no less than $250,000pa. However, the organisation is undertaking efficiency reviews across all functional groups and I would expect there will be more efficiencies while ensuring we do what we have to do well. We continue to be a part of the BOPLASS venture: a 9 council-controlled company delivering savings in sharing back office functions. Whilst all this is happening we have some key projects to focus on this year.

They include the Tauranga Harbour, Rotorua Lakes, Fresh Water Management including River Scheme sustainability.

The Tauranga Harbour is a programme of integrated works across many work streams of the Council. The work will focus on the protection of the harbour waters from stock and sedimentation, reforesting steep erodible slopes and protecting wetlands and native forest areas. None of the work would be effective without the wonderful coast and estuary care groups who work tirelessly to protect our beautiful harbour places. The work will also continue with the controlled removal of mangroves in some areas, clearing nuisance accumulations of sea lettuce and working with all those involved in research around harbour and maritime areas. In 2013/14 we are planning to spend $4.1m on Tauranga Harbour related works.

The Tauranga Harbour defines us .We look at it, swim in and under it, fish it and boat on it. It is our playground and the nurturer of our souls. We need to do what we can in our lifetimes to protect and nurture it. Let us know what you think.

You can also email me at paulathompson@xtra.co.nz.