Dunedin City Council – Media Release
Business sector asked to rate DCC service
This item was published on 30 Nov 2015
The Dunedin City Council today released an online business survey to check how its services are being perceived by Dunedin’s business people.
The DCC committed to introducing a proactive and business-friendly approach across the DCC when it launched Dunedin’s Economic Development Strategy in 2013.
The online survey asks Dunedin business people to think about the service they have received from DCC staff over the past eight months. The survey results will be compared with the answers received by the DCC’s Enterprise Dunedin business unit from the first survey which was launched in April.
The survey specifically targets businesses which had direct contact with the DCC over the past eight months – those identified will receive an email asking them to complete the anonymous survey.
General Manager Services and Development Simon Pickford says the survey will help to gauge where things have improved and identify areas that still need to be addressed.
“The results from this survey allow us to see if we are heading on the right track by analysing how we have fared over the past eight months. But more importantly this survey marks the start of an ongoing quarterly report which will track the satisfaction of business people who have used the DCC’s services.”
Mr Pickford says that in the past the DCC’s business friendliness hasn’t been well measured but this new measure is a further step toward solving that problem.
“This is about creating a better two way conversation with business owners around town and about the type of service they are receiving. We aim to consistently be more business friendly. This is the start of more regular reporting on business satisfaction.”
█ The survey will close on 11 December 2015 for analysis.
Contact General Manager Services and Development on 477 4000. DCC Link
█ Read the report (dated 20 May 2015) for the last business survey here.
photonz
Submitted on 2015/11/30 at 9:34 am
Several more blocked drains seen later on Friday and also more on Saturday, including some so bad they were flooding right across the road.
And today in the ODT we have the Mayor slapping ratepayers across the face again with the laughable claim that rate rises are due to rises in the cost of bitumen and pipes.
Considering how much is spent on bitumen and pipes, compared to wages and interest, that sounds [like as] big a lie as “the drains are properly maintained”.
The ODT should call Mayor Cull on this – because blaming year after year of rate rises on the costs of bitumen and pipes sounds like a big fat lie.
“Taking the kids to school this morning, the drain at the end of our road is blocked and water is flowing across the street. So I started counting blocked drains on my short journey to Queens and Tahuna schools. Grand total – 14 blocked drains, including three bad enough for large amounts of water to be flowing right across the street.
Similarly a relative’s business in town has been flooded several times, every time because of blocked drains. Often they are left with the choice of going out in the rain to unblock it themselves, or hiring a private contractor to suction-pump it.
Because even though the DCC know it’s a problem, they still don’t maintain it.
Do the DCC not realise that all they do is make themselves look like either incompetent fools or liars, when they make the laughable claim that the drains are well maintained and do not contribute to flooding?”
photonz
Submitted on 2015/11/27 at 11:36 am
Several more blocked drains seen on the way into town, including two so bad the water is flowing right across the road. And it wasn’t even raining very hard at that stage.
At least three of those flood across the road very time it rains hard – ie 10-20 times a year.
Received from Calvin Oaten
Sat, 28 Nov 2015 at 5:35 p.m.
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—–Original Message—– From: Calvin Oaten Sent: Sunday, 1 November 2015 10:10 a.m. To: Sandy Graham Cc: Dave Cull; Sue Bidrose Subject: [LGOIMA] Request
Hello Sandy,
I have been reading the annual reports of Dunedin Venues Management Ltd (DVML) and am somewhat uncertain as to the true position regarding the matter of charges/fees for the use of the Stadium. We were given a detailed report in the 2014/15 Annual Plan wherein it [was] disclosed that the DCC/ratepayers would be making a one off lump sum of $2.271m to DVML by way of calling up unpaid capital. Then there is to be $715k per annum paid also by way of calling up unpaid capital. An event attraction fund of $400k per annum, source ratepayers? These two annual sums are I believe revenue to DVML. We won’t talk about the later decision to fund $2m per annum as a rent subsidy to DVL, due to DVML’s inability to meet the $4m rent required towards DVL’s debt reduction.
There is no mention of the Stadium in the 2015/16 Annual Plan with any reference to funding shortfalls even though both DVML and DVL continue to run deficits.
Zeroing in on sports events held in the Stadium (because that is its primary purpose) I see that in 2013 there was (sic) 44 events attracting 205,511 attendees.
In 2014 there were 39 with 206,123 there and in 2015 for 33 events 174,575 turned out in support.
DVML showed revenue of $6.085m in 2012 and $8.205m in 2013. These were of the Stadium only, thereafter it includes the Edgar Centre, the DCC Convention Centre plus the Ice Stadium management. This brought about an increase in revenue to $9.127m for 2014 and $9.960m in 2015. Similar pattern for the operating expenses over those same years.
In order to enable one to get an assessment of where these obviously inadequate revenues come from I would request under the [LGOIMA] the following points;
1. The main events being rugby, which of the ORFU, the Highlander Franchise or the NZRFU staged what events over those years? What was the rental received by DVML from those respective bodies per event and do they figure in the revenue statements?
2. What was the amount of revenue received from the other lesser codes which used the same facilities?
With respect to the Operating Expenses outlined in the reports, 2012 as $3.862m, 2013 $3.589m, 2014 $4.361m and 2015 $5.407m.
1. Of those expenses I would request under the [LGOIMA] the amounts of those expenses which could be described as paid inducements or subsidies to perform in the Stadium, albeit sports and concerts?
I trust that this information could be made available within the statutory twenty-one days and thank you in anticipation.
Cheers,
Calvin Oaten
—
Terry Davies, DVML Chief Executive [via whatifdunedin]
From: Terry Davies Subject: FW: [LGOIMA] Request Date: 27 November 2015 3:53:09 pm NZDT To: Calvin Oaten
Dear Mr Oaten
I refer to your email dated 1 November which has been referred to DVML to respond. I have responded directly to your questions below:
1. The main events being rugby, which of the ORFU, the Highlander Franchise or the [NZRU] staged what events over those years? What was the rental received by DVML from those respective bodies per event and do they figure in the revenue statements? The rental received for these events is withheld under section 7(2)(h) and (i) of the Local Government Official Information and Meetings Act 1987 to allow DVML to carry out commercial activities without prejudice or disadvantage.
2. What was the amount of revenue received from the other lesser codes which used the same facilities? The revenue received for these events is withheld under section 7(2)(h) and (i) of the Local Government Official Information and Meetings Act 1987 to allow DVML to carry out commercial activities without prejudice or disadvantage.
With respect to the Operating Expenses outlined in the reports, 2012 as $3.862m, 2013 $3.589m, 2014 $4.361m and 2015 $5.407m.
1. Of those expenses I would request under the [LGOIMA] the amounts of those expenses which could be described as paid inducements or subsidies to perform in the Stadium, albeit sports and concerts? The expenses incurred and event attraction funding for these events is withheld under section 7(2)(h) and (i) of the Local Government Official Information and Meetings Act 1987 to allow DVML to carry out commercial activities without prejudice or disadvantage.
You are entitled to have this decision reviewed by the Ombudsman.
Yours sincerely
Terry Davies
———————————————
From: Calvin Oaten Subject: Fwd: [LGOIMA] Request Date: 28 November 2015 12:08:46 am NZDT To: Sue Bidrose
Hello Sue,
You will have been aware of my queries expressed recently via the [LGOIMA], re the DVML revenue [breakdown].
Well I would have to say that the reply as received is totally underwhelming. This would have to be the most condescending, snivelling, performance by a highly positioned manager one could expect. Hiding behind a clause in a flawed piece of legislation to deny a citizen stakeholder information which ought to be available, on the grounds that it would compromise the company in carrying out its business without prejudice or disadvantage is nothing but
a complete ‘cop-out’ by a less than forthright person. Unless there is detail showing activities detrimental to achieving maximum returns to the company, then I find it a disingenuous and rude dismissal of an honest request.
Sue, I am dissatisfied with his response but if you think it is the way it should lie, then I would be deeply disappointed. I would appreciate your comments as I treat this as a serious affront.
Cheers,
Calvin
[ends]
—
█ In other developments, ICC felt the need to secure games for its stadium. What have Terry Davies, (“make it work”) Dave Cull and Sue Bidrose been up to in behind ?
### ODT Online Fri, 27 Nov 2015 Rugby: Highlanders private investors revealed (+ video)
A group of South Island private investors has been granted a five-year licence to run the Highlanders. The group, headed by Ticket Direct boss Matthew Davey, has taken a 77% stake in the Dunedin-based Super Rugby franchise, with Otago, Southland and North Otago Provincial Unions having a 13% stake. New Zealand Rugby (NZR) retains a 10% share for the first two years. Read more
Otago Daily Times Published on Nov 26, 2015
Highlanders private investors revealed
29.11.15 ODT: Rugby: New operators for Highlanders
The Invercargill City Council has underwritten the venture to the tune of up to $500,000 in return for one guaranteed game at Rugby Park each year for the next five years.
29.11.15 ODT: Canadian finds his ticket to success
Matthew Davey says the Highlanders helped make him – now he is ready to help return the favour. The Dunedin businessman says he started the company he founded, Ticket Direct, at Carisbrook in 1999, and it has since grown into a multinational entity based in Dunedin.
### ODT Online Thu, 26 Nov 2015 In-chambers Bachop inquest
By Chris Morris
There will be no open inquest into the death of former Dunedin City Council Citifleet team leader Brent Bachop. Instead, the death of the man found to be at the centre of the council’s $1.5million vehicle fraud is being dealt with in chambers, the Otago Daily Times understands. Read more
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The Faerie Queene is an incomplete English epic poem by Edmund Spenser. The first half was published in 1590, and a second instalment was published in 1596.
—
Posted by Elizabeth Kerr
*Image: bbc.co.uk – Isabella Salstonstall as Una from Spenser’s The Faerie Queene. The Fitzwilliam Museum via The Public Catalogue Foundation.
Council 30 November 2015
MOSGIEL POOL FUTURE AQUATIC PROVISION
Department: Parks, Recreation and Aquatics
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
1. This report presents high level concept design options and associated capital and operating costs for a new aquatic facility in Mosgiel. A decision is required on which, if any option should be progressed to developed design stage to enable more detailed operating costs, capital costs and whole of life cost options to be developed.
2. Staff have conducted a robust process, assisted by aquatic facility development and operation experts, using architects and quantity surveyors with substantial aquatic experience (including Selwyn) and with the input of Sport New Zealand. Despite this, and whilst reaching agreement on a preferred site, there is a fundamental difference between the staff position and that of the Taieri Community Facilities Trust (the Trust).
3. Council staff consider they can deliver a high quality aquatic facility containing two bodies of water that provide for casual recreation (leisure), casual fitness (lap swimming) and learn to swim that will be valued by the Mosgiel community. The Trust does not agree.
4. The estimated total capital cost for this option is approximately $14.4m, based on benchmarking, which can be refined and reduced through developed design, value management and procurement processes.
5. The Trust position is that for the same amount of money, ie approximately $14.4m, a four-pool proposal, as presented in 2014, can be delivered. The staff assessment of this position is that the capital cost is more likely to be approximately $18-20m, based on feedback from Sport New Zealand and the quantity surveyor.
RECOMMENDATIONS
That the Council:
a) Decides that Site A, located adjacent to the existing Mosgiel Pool is the preferred site for the development of a new aquatic facility.
b) Directs officers to progress the option of two bodies of water, delivering leisure, lap and learn to swim activities through to developed design including further refinement of capital costs, operating costs, and the development of whole of life facility costs, and report back to Council in May 2016.
c) Notes the estimated capital cost of the current concept for two bodies of water is $10,458,000 (buildings, siteworks and infrastructure) plus $2,379,500 (fees, consents, furniture and equipment) plus $1,567,000 (project contingency and ground improvement provision); a total of $14,404,500.
d) Notes that the estimated capital cost excludes an escalation provision, currently estimated at 2.8% per annum for the three years until the Council funding is available.
e) Acknowledges the continued commitment of the Taieri Community Facilities Trust to the project, through their participation in the steering group and input into the concept design process.
Author: Jendi Paterson, Parks and Recreation Planning Manager
Authoriser(s): Richard Saunders, Group Manager, Parks, Recreation and Aquatics; Ruth Stokes, General Manager, Infrastructure and Networks
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DUNEDIN CITY COUNCIL PROPOSED TAIERI AQUATIC CENTRE – MOSGIEL
19 October 2015
Feedback on Taieri Community Facilities Trust Feasibility Study (November 2014), Warren & Mahoney Architects (WAM) and Barnes Beagley Doherr (BBD) Master Plan and Cost Estimate (September 2015).
[Extracts]
1. General observations – There is universal acceptance that the existing Mosgiel Community Pool is an asset at the end of its usefulness and fit with existing and future community needs. The Taieri Community Facilities Trusts (the Trust) Feasibility correctly establishes that historical reports, information and recommendations along with DCC support this view. What is unclear or fully evidenced in the study is:
– What needs assessment and demand are evident and directly related to the size, scale and component mix for the facility required? E.g. need for a FINA certified 10 lane competition pool.
– Confirmation of the likely and sustainable catchment that the centre will serve?
– The impact of the proposed facility on the existing aquatic network?
– What is the projects full capital cost and whole of life affordability for the community?
3. Site and location – It is agreed that Memorial Park is the preferred site for the development of a new aquatic centre. The Feasibility Study promotes the use of a site that impacts significantly the existing Memorial Park Gardens. This option seems unnecessary given the other options available at the park to DCC. Of the subsequent locations within the park proposed by Warren and Mahoney Architects (20.09.15) those sites favoured are those that enable the existing pool to operate during any development period, impact adjacent residents the least, provides multiple points of entry, maximises existing car parking and allows for future expansion should be considered. In this context Site A and Site B are favoured. Site A may offer the opportunity to upgrade and integrate the Caravan Park operation into the new facility, management model and provide a positive revenue stream for the centre.
6. Funding Strategy – the expectation placed on the Trust to raise 50% ($7.5m) of the capital cost of the project is considered unrealistic and unfair. Despite the optimism of the Trust would be unachievable by the second half of 2016 as identified in the Trusts timeline for achieving the pledged funding target. Undoubtedly, this would place extreme pressure of exiting funding agencies and fundraising organisations delivering alternative community outcomes and services for some time. One needs to ask the question – is the same expectation places on communities of interest to raise 50% of funding for developments of public libraries, community halls, sport parks and other public amenities?
Conclusion, the size scale and complexity of the proposed aquatic centre seems to address the wants rather than the needs of the community. Justification of the overall component mix, the need for 10 v’s 8 lanes, competitive aquatic sport needs v’s wider community recreation, wellness and entertainment (youth and older adults) would benefit from closer consideration given the significant level of investment under consideration. The size and extent of the projected catchment population may be inflated and with minimal consideration given to the impact of the new centre on the existing aquatic network of facilities and in its current form designed to compete rather than compliment Moana Pool. The assessment of capital cost seems consistent based on similar south island projects and assessment of construction rates without due consideration to those costs currently excluded. The projected operating budget is not inclusive of all relevant costs (debt repayments and depreciation) nor does it consider the whole of life costs for the assets which will require the need for an ongoing level of operational subsidy.
Dave doesn’t know whether to swallow his kornies or not.
His hair is turning grey, he’s feeling tired and he looks old.
Meanwhile, someone files divorce papers.
[“I thought we were Green! I can’t understand you anymore! Asbestos for cash?! These are your scarves, your suits, I’m throwing out the window – along with this stupid bike helmet, used camel shackles and all the skanky lycra. Go away!”]
Secretly, young woman seen rubbing hands with glee at so much dosh.
[Stifle obvious questions about what else goes into Green Island landfill. This is Tartan Mafia town.]
DCC receives $millions for landfill dumping of hazardous waste, WHO CARES ABOUT GREEN except for the imprint of Serious Money to bolster Council slush funds, rugby? stadium ? cricket ? – anyone ?
NOO! For Sue’s next trips to Oxford, staff’s Grand Central City Plan, and some left-over to pay planning fees and charges for the VB’s aquarium, hotel and connector bridge to the waterfront.
[Share spoils, maties! Leave suspicious Ratepayers out of it.]
There are no serious equitable plans to improve South Dunedin or Mosgiel drainage systems, or manage coastal erosion.
The dilemmas of High Office and short men.
—
Cheaper to dump hazardous waste at Dunedin than at Canterbury.
DCC stoopid again, takes a cheap ride instead of bumping up contract price.
Deals worth millions of dollars —council staff cite commercial sensitivity.
### ODT Online Tue, 24 Nov 2015 Asbestos fill headed for Dunedin
By Chris Morris
Up to 12,000 tonnes of asbestos-contaminated fill from Canterbury is destined to be dumped in Dunedin, but that might just be the tip of a toxic – but lucrative – iceberg. The Otago Daily Times understands the Dunedin City Council has more than one contract to accept contaminated material from outside the city at the Green Island landfill. Read more
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The latest inanity. [Comic Sans] Source: RNZ News: South Dunedin considers sea level threat.
20 November 2015 at 8:42 a.m. (AUDIO LINK)
Hype O’Thermia: YouTube and Wikipedia are good places to find out more about ICLEI. ICLEI teaches the DCC how to inflict the Sustainable Development world view on the citizens by using devious, undemocratic, secret and manipulative methods. ICLEI has helped the DCC to produce “marketing and communication” strategies to break down barriers to their deeply stupid ideas being accepted by the public. The goal is “behaviour change”. East Germany had the Stasi (Staatssicherheit), now we have ICLEI, Dave Cull and Sue Bidrose.
The influence of ICLEI explains a few things – like the DCC’s tendency towards increasingly secret (staff only) decision-making (eg the development and implementation of the Environment Strategy) and the generally severely deficient level of public consultation due to: skimpy information, poor publicity, expanding decisions beyond the scope of the consultation and treating it as just a ceremonial procedure (eg Dave’s Bicycle Network and its implementation). The pursuit of ICLEI’s goals is a direct cause of the underfunding of the city’s deficient (and worsening) infrastructure.
As far as I can tell most DCC councillors don’t know that the DCC has become a member of ICLEI and are unaware of the financial cost and its big influence in forming DCC policy. This demonstrates a problem with the attitude of the staff that councillors need to fix. The collusion between Dave Cull and Sue Bidrose is, however, a barrier to this that needs to be overcome. Councillors need to stop sleepwalking and start to become aware of the decisions that are being made without their involvement.
[ends]
—
Posted by Elizabeth Kerr
*Image: cartoonaday.com – Dave breakfast gruel [Warcraft-All-Nighter-Gamer tweaked by whatifdunedin]
Paul writes a new post Waste Not Want Not – Tomahawk School
I’ve never liked seeing things go to waste. Especially when those things can be used again by someone else or redesigned for another purpose. It’s probably why I have a garage full of “junk” or as I like to call it “things that might come in handy one day”. Now I’m just talking about small stuff, nuts, bolts, door latches and bits of timber, but lately I’ve seen a much bigger issue of waste that has been frustrating Tomahawk for more than three years.
Image: Paul Pope
In 2012 the Dunedin City Council purchased the Tomahawk School site from the Ngai Tahu for $300,000. The school had been closed by the Ministry of Education in 2010 and the property sold by the Crown. The 2012 purchase by the Council was made as part of the Coastal Dune Reserves Management Plan process, creating a required level of protection for adjacent dunes. However, it appears that coastal protection was not the only reason for the purchase by the Council. It would be fair to say that those reasons have become considerably muddled. On one hand there is the thought that the land and school are a community asset. While on the other there was a view within Council that it was essential to buy the property to stop subdivision and consequent residential development on coastal land into 15 properties with 15 houses.
█ It gets worse, read on…. more photos
Mayor calls on government for help
39 Dunedin Television 20.11.15
A rising issue for seaside suburbs, a new report shows Dunedin is most at risk of suffering the negative effects of rising sea levels due to climate change. South Dunedin residents in particular are likely to experience flooding from rising ground water. Ch39 Link
From: Elizabeth Kerr Sent: Thursday, 19 November 2015 5:13 p.m. To: Vivienne Harvey; Simon Pickford; Sue Bidrose Cc: Elizabeth Kerr Subject: Proposed 2GP – closing date for submissions
Dear Vivienne, Simon and Sue
Thanks for reply in advance of the public notice at the DCC website today, also appearing Saturday in the local newspaper.
For your information I’m not representing anyone other than myself in addressing letters to the Chief Executive on matters to do with the Proposed 2GP. In my letter (below) I reference need for extension as would apply to “the community” (meaning interested public) as a whole.
The RMA does not mention an ePlan.
The DCC ePLan (1600 pages) launched at us, as we’re well aware, is a horror to deal with for many.
In this regard the RMA requirement of 40 working days scarcely seems fair or practical. Months ahead of ‘back and forth’ through appeals with some parties will, I suggest, place ‘workability’ in sharper relief for the city council. I look forward to what unfolds.
I appreciate your clarification provided for submitters around extensions. This is proactive.
Sincere regards
Elizabeth Kerr
Sent from Mail for Windows 10
From: Elizabeth Kerr Sent: Wednesday, 11 November 2015 5:41 p.m. To: Sue Bidrose Cc: Elizabeth Kerr Subject: Proposed 2GP – closing date for submissions
Attention:
Sue Bidrose
Chief Executive, Dunedin City Council
Dear Sue
RE Extension for submissions on Proposed 2GP
I note the closing date for public submissions has been set as Tuesday, 24 November 2015.
Due to the length (1600 pages) and comprehensive nature of the planning document (by ePlan), in that it no longer resembles the current Dunedin City District Plan at all, I request that the closing date for public submissions is extended into the 2016 new year.
This will allow the community to consult itself, the city council, and experts where need, more fairly and comprehensively than has been possible in the time since notification on Saturday, 26 September 2015.
It’s of collective mutual interest to enhance and facilitate the public’s understanding of the document and its likely effect(s) on physical, cultural and political determinants for sustainable management of our environment and resources. This means allowing more time for initial submissions.
From: Elizabeth Kerr Sent: Thursday, 19 November 2015 4:14 a.m. To: Sue Bidrose Cc: Elizabeth Kerr Subject: Proposed 2GP – difficulty with ePlan document tracking
Attention:
Sue Bidrose
Chief Executive, Dunedin City Council
Dear Sue
RE Proposed 2GP – difficulty with ePlan document tracking
In thinking through the public’s approach to carrying through on their submissions, further submissions, and within mediation and hearing processes, or indeed formal appeal processes via Environment Court – how will individual and group submitters and their experts contend with ePlan document tracking in these settings.
● Not all members of the public have access to laptop computers or the ability to use them efficiently in a formal meeting or hearing setting;
● In any case, participants will be disadvantaged if there are inadequate numbers of chairs and tables provided to facilitate safe (ergonomic) use of laptop computers – this also applies for those actively listening from the public gallery;
● Due to the unwieldy size of the (draft) ePlan at 1600 pages it is highly unlikely individuals will want to request print editions in order to ‘keep up’ with business in whichever forum.
This perceived lack of accessibility and usability of the 1600-page ePlan in the delivery of written and oral submissions as well as the giving of expert evidence raises serious questions around fairness and justness – ultimately, a concern to all Dunedin ratepayers and residents, and the city council.
● I have absolutely no idea how submitters, experts, news media, council staff or commissioners will technically follow specific mention of ePlan sections and references, or achieve cross referencing swiftly and successfully, be it with or without laptops or printed copy.
Here looms a logistical and bureaucratic nightmare for all.
To be frank, I see no ready solution.
However, I invite council explanation if through media statement(s) or council website guides that might practically assist or calm the resolve of the interested public wanting to critically engage with the proposed second generation district plan in the coming months.
I look forward to your reply by email.
Sincere regards
Elizabeth Kerr
Sent from Mail for Windows 10
█ The public has until November 24 to make submissions.
Watch your property values drop….
ODT 18.11.15 (page 14)
As for the notional concept of growth….
ODT 17.11.15 (page 6)
Further to Calvin Oaten’s mention of school rolls dropping….
Roll figures for 2015 show the city’s secondary schools have capacity for 9252 pupils, but 1513 spaces are not used in Dunedin – the equivalent of two secondary school rolls. ODT 18.11.15
Agricultural Hall. Burton Brothers studio. Te Papa Archives [C.012324]
His Majesty’s Theatre, Dunedin [render via realestate.co.nz]
Sammy’s portico to Crawford Street [dunedinmusic.com]
REAL ESTATE BLURB | Built 1896 Agricultural Hall 1902 Renamed His Majesty’s Theatre 1983 Sammy’s Cabaret & Restaurant
Time for someone else to take over the reins – with fresh enthusiasm and ideas for this iconic Dunedin property. Located in the heart of Dunedin’s rapidly developing ‘Warehouse Precinct’ it lends itself to a multitude of uses. Building 1500m with frontages to both Crawford & Vogel Streets. http://www.remax.co.nz/10395003
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█ SOUL DESTROYING LACK OF DISTRICT PLAN SCHEDULING
‘An offer pending consent for Sammy’s would more likely mean plans to considerably alter or demolish the building.’ –Glen Hazelton, DCC Policy Planner (Heritage)
█ SHINING LIGHTS
“It’s already protected under our Act, that’s the main thing.” –Matthew Schmidt, HNZ Otago Southland regional archaeologist
### ODT Online Wed, 18 Nov 2015 Uncertain future for venue
By Craig Borley Demolition could be an option for Sammy’s, one of Dunedin’s most loved live music venues and one of the warehouse precinct’s largest buildings. On the market for “a few months” and with a list price of $240,000, the 1896 building had attracted attention from several potential buyers, owner Sam Chin said yesterday. Interest from one of those potential buyers was contingent on gaining a resource consent, Mr Chin said. He could not name the potential buyer and did not know what that resource consent was for. Read more
BIG QUEST TO FIND THE RIGHT NEW OWNER – MEANWHILE, CITIZEN DUTY TO PROTECT THE BUILDING AS AN ICONIC PRESENCE IN VOGEL STREET HERITAGE PRECINCT AND WAREHOUSE PRECINCT
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Sammy’s Dunedin NZ 7.9.12 [Sola Rosa via staticflickr.com]
Sammy’s (2011) [alizarinlizard.blogspot.co.nz]
“….we got back to Dunedin by lunchtime and unloaded the P.A gear into Sammys then went home an slept the rest of the day till we had to come back an sound check..
but yeah, played later on that night and had a blast. Sammys looks absolutely amazing now days if you havent seen it already.”
–Alizarin Lizard, Dunedin psych-pop quartet
But what looked good at night under lights in 2011 was profoundly “trouble” due to lack of diligent building repair and maintenance, or any appreciation for fire safety…. and more words from Mr Chin….
[via comments at What if? Dunedin]
Elizabeth June 1, 2011 at 2:58 am
### D Scene 1-6-11 Future of Sammy’s uncertain after eviction (page 3)
The future of notable Dunedin music venue Sammy’s is uncertain, after the eviction earlier this week of the operators of the Crawford St business. Building owner Sam Chin told D Scene yesterday that he had moved into the venue on Monday night and changed the locks. “The venue is closed for now and we’re just cleaning things up.”
{continues} #bookmark [search required]
Elizabeth June 23, 2011 at 2:33 pm
### ODT Online Thu, 23 Jun 2011 Nightclub owner angry over damage at venue
By Nigel Benson
Sammy’s owner Sam Chin has experienced some wild nights at the nightclub over the years. But he was not prepared for the sight which greeted him when he changed the locks on the building three weeks ago, after not receiving rent from the lessee since November. […] The venue opened in 1896 as the Agricultural Hall, before being renamed His Majesty’s Theatre, and has a long history as a hall, theatre and live music venue. Mr Chin said he wanted to maintain that tradition and reopen it for concerts next month. Read more
—
Elizabeth August 7, 2011 at 11:36 am
### ODT Online Sun, 7 Aug 2011 Sammy’s set to reopen this month
By Nigel Benson
Sammy’s will reopen this month after being closed in June for refurbishment. Owner Sam Chin shut the venue after the building fell into disrepair. He said yesterday demand had led to him taking bookings again. […] “We had a lot of inquiries about when we were going to reopen. It’s such a good space with plenty of room for 500-plus people. We’ve already got three or four university graduation dinners booked in over the next couple of weeks.” Read more
Updated (via Hamish McNeilly/Fairfax Media)
Wed, 18 Nov 2015 at 3:20 p.m.
█ Court date pushed back to February.
Civil proceedings against Maria Frances Smith were due to be heard at the High Court in Dunedin tomorrow morning, with the council listed as the plaintiff, but the case has been adjourned until February 4.
—
Link received from Fairfax Media.
### Stuff.co.nz Last updated 14:07, November 18 2015 Dunedin City Council to take widow of sole Citifleet suspect to court
By Hamish McNeilly
The Dunedin City Council has launched civil proceedings against the widow of the man believed to be responsible for the $1.5 million Citifleet fraud. The council lodged the proceedings against Maria Frances Smith, the widow of Brent Bachop, with the Dunedin High Court. A hearing, understood to be about Bachop’s estate, was originally set down for Thursday but will now happen in February. Read more
### dunedintv.co.nz Mon, 16 Nov 2015 DCC earnings below budget
The city council’s heading into Christmas with less money in its accounts than budgeted. Its latest financials have been revealed in a report to councillors. Revenue is down by half a million dollars compared to budget, as at the end of September. The council’s also made less money than expected on its Waipori Fund investments, and has received less funding. Energy costs have also been higher than anticipated. The operating deficit for the three months to September was almost a million dollars worse than budget. Ch39 Link [no video available]
DCC Finance Committee met this afternoon, with the following agenda and reports tabled. There were no minutes for confirmation.
The Economic Development Committee met immediately prior to the Finance meeting. Four reports from Enterprise Dunedin were tabled.
Refer to DCC website for this information.
—
DEVIOUSLY with not much public notice a full Council meeting also took place today. You can see by the agenda items why this one was rushed through quietly in preamble.
████ Report – Council – 16/11/2015 (PDF, 91.3 KB)
Appointment of Independent Commissioners to the Proposed Dunedin City Council District Plan Hearings Panel – Te Paepae Kaiwawao Motuhake O Te 2GP
█ The public has until November 24 to make submissions.
[from the report, note the maori-isation under Cull’s steer]
JOKE – meaning there was NO NEED at all for Councillor appointments 18 expressions of interest were received by the deadline of 5pm on Monday 19 October 2015. One expression of interest was submitted a week after this deadline. This was excluded from consideration on the basis that the reasons for lateness were not sufficient to warrant an exception being granted.
DOUBLE TRIPLE JOKE
In accordance with the delegation from Council, the Chief Executive formed an evaluation panel to review the expressions of interest submitted. The Panel comprised: Chief Executive, Sue Bidrose; General Manager of Services and Development, Simon Pickford; City Development Manager, Anna Johnson; a Probity Officer (Group Manager Corporate Services, Sandy Graham) was appointed to oversee and document the completion of each evaluation step and ensure the process was fair and transparent. HAHAHAHA
BUT WAIT
The candidates that were ranked the highest had:
• A planning qualification or full NZPI membership
• A wide-ranging experience in planning practice (as a commissioner or practitioner), having worked in a number of areas of planning and for a variety of local authorities
• Significant experience as a commissioner hearing plan changes, and direct experience of the planning issues likely to emerge from the 2GP.
In addition to assessing the candidates on their experience, the highest ranked candidates were contacted to ensure any conflicts of interests could be adequately managed, and reference checks were undertaken.
[squeak] Finally, candidates’ appreciation and knowledge of iwi values and protocols and experience with topics related to natural hazards or other risk-based issues were considered.
Six candidates scored at a level to appoint them to the Hearings Panel. The candidates’ rankings are set out in Attachment A [NOT PROVIDED] to this report. The expressions of interest from all six candidates suitable for appointment are included in Attachment B [NOT PROVIDED]. The full list of the expressions of interest submitted is set out in Attachment C [NOT PROVIDED].
As a result of the ranking exercise, it is recommended that Council appoint the two highest scoring candidates for the membership of the Hearings Panel, and a further member from the candidates ranked second equal.
Remuneration will be negotiated by the Chief Executive and management plans for any conflicts of interest will also be set at this time.
████ Elected members should note that the Council received objections in relation to its decision to appoint elected members to the Hearings Panel, indicating that there is a degree of public interest in the Council’s decision on the selection of decision makers for this process.
It was outside the panel’s remit to consider criticism of the process or support for the current flag……..
### ODT Online Fri, 13 Nov 2015 Readers support Mallard in flag debate
Source: NZME
Readers have weighed in to support claims by Trevor Mallard the flag referendum process is “total spin”, following analysis showing feedback from thousands of people critical of the process had been ignored by the flag consideration panel. Analysis published today on new data platform ‘Herald Insights’ shows official reports published by the flag panel had ignored thousands of public submissions – nearly a third of total feedback – that were critical of the process or supportive of retaining the current flag. Read more
█ Message: Why you should be extremely concerned about DCC financial stupidity.
[Are Dave, Sue and Grant rubbing their hands ? -Eds]
—
### radionz.co.nz Thu, 12 Nov 2015 at 8:22 pm NZT
RNZ News Court ruling dismays Mangawhai ratepayers
By Lois Williams, RNZ Northland Reporter
Mangawhai people challenging rates set by the Kaipara District Council are dismayed by their latest defeat in court.
The Whangarei District Court has thrown out the arguments of Mangawhai Ratepayers’ Association president Bruce Rogan that his rates and many others set since 2006 were invalid because of multiple errors in the rating assessments. He said the council did not dispute the errors but the court had essentially said they did not matter.
“Things like setting the rates inclusive of GST, there’s absolutely no power in the act to do that,” Mr Rogan said. “It’s not a matter of them (the council) saying they didn’t do these things; they actually said they did them and said so in court.” Councils should not be able to use the law to gouge ratepayers when they did not comply with it themselves, he said. “It’s the end of civil society as we know it if this is allowed to stand. That may sound over-dramatic but if we don’t have a legal system that interprets the law as it is written then we’re all doomed.”
The association was still waiting for a Court of Appeal decision after it challenged the council in the High Court over its right to bill ratepayers for council debts they were not told about. The High Court found the Kaipara District Court’s borrowing to expand the Mangawhai Ecocare wastewater system was unlawful, because ratepayer had not been consulted about it. However, it could not rule on the rates levied to pay for the bank loans because Parliament had passed a special bill to validate them.
Mr Rogan owes the council $22,000 in rate arrears and has offered to pay the portion he believed was lawfully levied, minus penalties. RNZ Link
From: Elizabeth Kerr Sent: Wednesday, 11 November 2015 5:41 p.m. To: Sue Bidrose Cc: Elizabeth Kerr Subject: Proposed 2GP – closing date for submissions
Attention:
Sue Bidrose
Chief Executive, Dunedin City Council
Dear Sue
RE Extension for submissions on Proposed 2GP
I note the closing date for public submissions has been set as Tuesday, 24 November 2015.
Due to the length (1600 pages) and comprehensive nature of the planning document (by ePlan), in that it no longer resembles the current Dunedin City District Plan at all, I request that the closing date for public submissions is extended into the 2016 new year.
This will allow the community to consult itself, the city council, and experts where need, more fairly and comprehensively than has been possible in the time since notification on Saturday, 26 September 2015.
It’s of collective mutual interest to enhance and facilitate the public’s understanding of the document and its likely effect(s) on physical, cultural and political determinants for sustainable management of our environment and resources. This means allowing more time for initial submissions.
Sincere regards
Elizabeth Kerr
Sent from Mail for Windows 10
█ The public has until November 24 to make submissions.
that the makeup of the panel selected to hear public submissions on the proposed second generation district plan (2GP) lacks independence due to both the number and selection of city councillors “with appropriate Resource Management Act training” – namely, Kate Wilson, David Benson-Pope, Jinty MacTavish and Aaron Hawkins;
and further,
the lack of independence still pertains given the ‘internal’ appointments will be accompanied by selection and appointment of up to three Only external independent commissioners – see DCC’s advertisement at ODT 3.10.15 (page 5): 2GP Hearings Panel – Expressions of Interest Sought. The notice is no longer available online at the DCC website; I attach a photograph.
Given these numbers, there is potential for the ‘councillor-commissioners’ to vote in a bloc should they choose.
I strongly believe public submitters on the Proposed 2GP should be able to trust in a just and fair process; a process without bias and political taint.
I don’t believe this is possible under current arrangements and selections for the hearings panel.
Furthermore,
One or more of the ‘councillor-commissioners’ – or indeed the external commissioners – may have previously ruled on resource consent applications, notices of requirement (for a designation), proposed plan changes and the like within the greater Dunedin area, which may have significant bearing on how they receive, decide and recommend on the content of public submissions in regards to the Proposed 2GP and the resulting plan document, whether or not sections are formally appealed to the Court(s).
In my opinion, for a fair and just process all those appointed to the 2GP hearings panel should not be city councillors; they should all be experienced independent commissioners sourced from outside Dunedin City Council’s geographic boundary area.
Sincere regards
Elizabeth Kerr
Sent from Mail for Windows 10
█ The public has until November 24 to make submissions.
(via OIA) Copy of final report of the NZ Police investigation into Citifleet.
The information released is the same as given to media outlets on Thursday, 5 November.
### ODT Online Fri, 6 Nov 2015 Hope for closure over Citifleet fraud
By Chris Morris
The Dunedin City Council hopes to turn the page on the $1.5 million Citifleet fraud after taking a public hammering in the eyes of ratepayers. Council chief executive Sue Bidrose expressed that hope after the police yesterday released their final report into the Citifleet investigation, which concluded no charges would be laid over the fraud. Read more
No comments allowed at ODT.
I don’t accept from Ms Bidrose that everything is now in the past. She was GM for Citifleet and Citipark, and latterly CE when this all started to unfold, and ultimately responsible for staff —in that the risk of loss of life as a possible outcome once DCC started (much belatedly) its internal investigation should have been better managed.
Over an 11-year period, 152 vehicles were unaccounted for, while more than $100,000 was misappropriated on a council fuel card.
### Stuff.co.nz Last updated 16:21 05/11/2015 | 11:34 05/11/2015 No-one charged with $1.5m Dunedin council fraud case
By Hamish McNeilly
No-one will be charged with the $1.5 million Dunedin City Council Citifleet fraud, a final police report reveals. Dunedin Police have released the final report into the fraud, involving the theft of more than 150 council vehicles and misused fuel cards, after the earlier release of an investigation report to Fairfax Media. That report was reviewed by Detective Senior Sergeant Malcolm Inglis, who concluded there was “insufficient evidence to charge any of the purchasers of the vehicles with the offence of receiving”.
“No other charges have been identified.” –Police report
Deloitte interviewed 62 people in relation to the theft of the vehicles from the council and the “majority of those persons were council employees”, the police report said.
● The council was expected to release a response to the police report on Thursday afternoon. Read more
Received from Jeff Dickie
Tue, 3 Nov 2015 at 2:16 p.m.
█ Subject: Singapore letter declined by ODT
On Sunday, 1 November 2015 1:22 PM, Jeff Dickie wrote:
Your newspaper’s images of couch burning and civil disorder become quite focused when viewed from a distance. It is absolutely clear none of the parties that showed a flurry of interest earlier in the year, when poor behaviour was exposed on national media, have any wish to solve it. There followed a cynical exercise in public relations damage control rather than any real effort to solve the problem behaviour of a very small minority. It begs the question why? The university clearly tacitly supports the party image to get bums on seats. The DCC doesn’t know what to do. As a regular visitor to Singapore where alcohol is available 24/7, I have never once seen any such behaviour. The solution is obvious.
JEFF DICKIE
ORCHARD ROAD
SINGAPORE
Woodhaugh
Dunedin
—
All Black win – any excuse
Video stills via Stuff.co.nz (published 1.11.15)
LadyGagaVEVO Published on Sep 17, 2015 Lady Gaga – Til It Happens To You
A portion of proceeds from the sale of the song will be donated to organizations helping survivors of sexual assault.
“Til It Happens To You” written by Diane Warren and Lady Gaga; performed by Lady Gaga, from the film THE HUNTING GROUND.
### Stuff.co.nz Last updated 05:00, 3 Nov 2015 Southern District Health Board commissioner Kathy Grant to reveal “work plan”
By Evan Harding
The woman charged with turning around the fortunes of the cash-strapped Southern District Health Board will reveal her master plan on Tuesday [today]. Health commissioner Kathy Grant and her team will reveal details of their “work plan” to staff of the Southern District Health Board at meetings in Dunedin, Invercargill and Queenstown. Read more
****
Document released to staff fails to state how many jobs will go, redundancy details, and the logistics of the new food system.
### ODT Online Mon, 2 Nov 2015 More hospital meal reheating tipped
By Eileen Goodwin
Dunedin Hospital’s cooks will focus on food “regeneration” – rather than cooking fresh meals for patients – after their job numbers are cut, according to a proposal Compass Group tried to keep under wraps. The multinational took over Southern District Health Board kitchens last month, and has started the process of cutting jobs to prepare for introducing its own food system. This will include trucking meals from Auckland to the South. Read more
Star reporter David Beck notes feral practices and bully-tactics.
### ODT Online Sun, 1 Nov 2015 Students undergo hazing rituals for flats
By David Beck – The Star
Dunedin tertiary students who have secured flats in popular areas such as Castle St and Hyde St are being put through hazing rituals by tenants leaving the flats. Flat initiations are particularly common for students securing a flat for their second year of study and generally involve excessive amounts of alcohol. Read more
█ Students needing support and advice in this area can contact Student Health, Campus Watch and staff at the university colleges.
****
### ODT Online Sun, 1 Nov 2015 Red cards a booze-fuelled tradition
By David Beck – The Star
The scarfie tradition of red cards is all about doing something new and having a good time, a university graduate says. Each person in a flat is allowed to pull one red card during the year. On the day they decide to use it, the rest of the flat has to participate in whatever alcohol-fuelled activity the holder has decided on. Read more
****
### ODT Online Sun, 1 Nov 2015 Police out in numbers in student area
Police have turned out in numbers in the student area of Dunedin this morning after a disruptive night combining Halloween and Rugby World Cup final celebrations. Read more
—
One practice David Beck has missed (see various
student-authored social media reports) is sexual predation visited on young women by feral young men, read Students —recently brought to the attention of What if? Dunedin.
(Frankly, practically) None of this is helped by ultra short skirts and visible G-strings worn by ‘accessible’ young women, to Dunedin night venues and popup parties. YES that is a non-PC statement but hey.
It’s hard to report sexual assault if you’ve been surrounded (while you’re drunk or drugged, or not) on the dance floor by young men exercising pack instinct and intent. The case of whose finger was it anyway. YES, this in Your Swill Town.
The University, Police and Council authorities wouldn’t have a clue about what/who/how to manage the manifold risks posed to vulnerable young people studying at Dunedin —outstanding ignorance, blindness and naïveté pertain within the Establishment, whose business (MARKETING) it has been to play down the more unsavoury aspects of Student party life here.
The University of Otago and NZ Police FAIL to monitor, DO NOT investigate, and DO NOT offer strong guidance on Student use of social media at Dunedin. These ‘encounters’ make the recent Roast Busters case at Auckland seem trivial if not ephemeral. The ‘Stewards of Dunedin’ reside in the Dark Ages, a place not enlightened by smartphone use for good or bad. There is BAD. Despite the law change based on the outcome of the Roast Busters investigation, sadistic criminal behaviours at Dunedin go unpoliced. And unreported to Police.
Keep partying why not. Sell more drinks, more party drugs?
No-one wants to talk about it. Jolly the young sweet things along.
—
Posted by Elizabeth Kerr
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What if? Dunedin... 