During the Annual Plan submission process some concerns were raised by residents at the Mount regarding the use of toxic chemical sprays to kill off noxious weeds in the sand dunes, prior to replanting the dunes.

I recently visited the Papamoa and Mount Maunganui coastline with some elected members and TCC staff to get a better understanding of what restored sites look like and to view areas before they are replanted with native species.

Residents adjoining the proposed site area of works are contacted in advance by Council and staff, who are available to answer any queries.

Some residents offered to do the work themselves in conjunction with advice from TCC staff.

Coastal Care group volunteers do great work along the coastline.

For further information, read the Use of Toxic Agrichemicals for Vegetation Management Policy.

Some of the principles include:

Council's preference is to use non-chemical methods of vegetation control whenever practical.

Council will proactively seek to reduce the use of toxic agrichemicals on

Council-maintained land.

Flushing the toilet

This week, as part of Long Term Plan, elected members received a briefing on waste water.

Of concern is the amount of wipes, cloths and rags that end up being flushed down toilets that can bind together and create huge logistical problems in wastewater pipes, for example blockages creating sewerage overflows.

Education is important and unfortunately when consumers purchase products, seen on television, that are promoted as being ‘bio degradable' this does not ensure that they are problem free, as these items can take a very long time to break down and the wipes and rags can cause problems in the meantime.

If you would like more information on this topic, phone 5777 000 and ask to speak to Wally Potts at TCC.

Remember, if you wish to speak to all elected members by leaving one telephone message phone 985 6171.