Nine months into the new triennium, it's time to review our committee structures and see if there are any changes needed to improve our current systems.

This term there have been many confidential briefings and increasingly more as we focus on reviewing the 10-year plan.

I'd like to see most briefings operated as open workshops. I think it's healthy for the community to hear what issues are being raised by staff and discussed by elected members.

Confidential briefing papers have included sustainability, 10-year plan priorities, storm water, Bay Venues Ltd, city plan and rating overview.

Council is looking at ways of reducing the volume of paper that elected members receive. Many elected members use iPads – and this is one option being considered.

You're invited

The next Community Development Committee will be held at Matua Hall, Levers Rd, on Tuesday July 15 starting 6.30pm.

The agenda will be on council's website a week prior to the meeting. I look forward to seeing you there.