Matt Cowley Tauranga City Councillor

Following the discovery of toxic mould in Tauranga City Council's buildings last year, we need to make a decision on how to accommodate our staff. The status quo is not an option as large areas of the buildings we own are empty, while we rent spaces scattered throughout the city centre.

Council's decision on where we accommodate staff will finely balance the need for an efficient, but well-considered, process.

Prompt decisions will reinstate certainty for staff and reduce the costs of occupying more space than we need too. But we cannot afford to rush the planning and design process as we need to involve the community in the decision-making process, as well as ensuring we measure twice and cut once.

Last week, elected members agreed the decision needs to create a productive environment for staff, while also supporting the city's strategic goals for the city centre.

Elected members are looking at lots of options, including talking to a range of developers and designers. At the moment, all options are on the table. Options may include a carpark building, a museum, a new library, as well as indoor and outdoor space for public amenities.

We will model the financial scenarios and share them with you, as any business needs to do its due diligence before making a significant decision.

There is no blanket rule whether government agencies should, or should not, own their buildings. It is a case-by-case decision, depending on the communities the agency is servicing, the longevity of the organisation, and the future of the surrounding area.

The project is a fantastic opportunity for the city, and the city centre. I personally will not be rushed into making a decision before the election if we are not ready. We need to ensure we reach a good outcome and have informed community buy-in.

Feel free to email me your thoughts (matt.cowley@tauranga.govt.nz), call/text me on 0276989548, and follow me atwww.facebook.com/a.younger.voice.