NEWS RELEASE

23 July 2001

Changes to Mainstreet policy

Auckland City has adopted a new Mainstreet policy.

The policy will result in changes to the constitutions of associations which run Mainstreet programmes, allowing them to operate consistently. Until now, each programme has been structured and operated differently.

The policy replaces a 10-year old document.

The change will define who is eligible to vote, what constitutes a mandate, and introduces review procedures and models for the operation of the programmes. Memorandum of Understandings between Auckland City and Mainstreet committees will be an additional component.

Mainstreet programmes are a partnership between local Government, businesses and local communities, with 15 operating in Auckland City.

They were established to reverse the decline of traditional towns and neighbourhood shopping centres, assisting an area by promoting its unique identity and to develop and enhance its local businesses.

Local ratepayers and business owners fund the programme through a separate rate. These are collected by Auckland City and paid to Mainstreet Associations, which are responsible for administering the funds.

The constitutional changes ensure that those businesses paying the separate rate have a say on how the funds are spent.

When business associations run Mainstreet programmes, the Council’s policy contains certain clauses to protect the rights of separate ratepayers and Mainstreet funds. These can not be changed without the Council’s approval.

The Council has a responsibility to the Mainstreet programme members to ensure that the separate rate is fairly collected and business owners are properly represented.

The Council is committed to working in partnership with Mainstreet programmes and to providing leadership to ensure that the programmes operate to their full potential.

Included in the policy is the development of urban design, heritage conservation, promotion and business development.

Once the new policy implementation is completed, Auckland City will develop and distribute a comprehensive guideline manual for the Mainstreet programmes.

ENDS

For further information, please contact:
- Di Stewart, Community Planner – Mainstreet, tel: 373 6809

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