Community input sought for planning and reviewing community services delivery

Horowhenua District Council is to establish a group of community representatives to provide input into planning, activities and delivery of aquatics, libraries and community services.

Community Services Manager Denise Kidd says the group will advocate for and on behalf of various communities throughout Horowhenua; advising on the community impact of services delivered, identifying future opportunities, and assisting with ongoing monitoring and evaluation.

Council invites applications from people wishing to be members of the new Horowhenua Community Services Reference Group. Applicants should be actively involved with their community, interested in social issues and community wellbeing; and be available to attend quarterly meetings. The inaugural three-year term will start in August 2016.

“We want to ensure Council is doing the right things and making progress. In particular, to know we are extending the reach and range of community services, improving service coordination and integration, as well as ensuring efficiency and quality,” Mrs Kidd said.

Mrs Kidd says the group will help build knowledge of the needs, interests and aspirations of different communities, including iwi, geographical communities, and different demographic populations such as families with children, youth, older people and people with disabilities.

She says two other aims are to create opportunities for communities to initiate their own ideas and projects, and to build knowledge of Council processes to encourage people to participate in community consultation and decision-making processes.

Horowhenua Community Services Reference Group member applications close on July 31 and forms are available at the back of the Community Services Action Plan booklet, available from Council or online at www.horowhenua.govt.nz.

ENDS

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