Congratulations to Leanne Brown, the new Mount/Papamoa Ward councillor. We now have four female elected members and a good mix of ages and backgrounds.

Meanwhile, the City Delivery Committee has received reports and updates from the City Centre Action Group, Creative Tauranga, Sport Bay of Plenty, Mainstreet Greerton, Mount Mainstreet and Downtown Tauranga.

I attended a Creative New Zealand workshop this week in Tauranga and gleaned information on what type of funding is available and who can apply.

Attendees came from all parts of the Bay of Plenty. This provided a good opportunity to hear what the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and perceived threats are for their towns and cities.

For further details regarding grants available, see www.creativenz.govt.nz

Elected members reduced the quantum in various budgets in the Draft Long Term Plan this week.

It was the first time in my seven years of being an elected member that elected members agreed to looking at the LTP budget again, prior to auditors checking and approving content.

And, remember, it's Bikewise month with lots of activities going on around the city – a good opportunity to experience what Tauranga has to offer.

Check out www.sportbop.co.nz for further information.