Community Services General Manager Matt Reid says the decision to extend the deadline is to give people more opportunity to have their views heard. He also reiterated the key benefits and advantages of the trust.
“Our aim is to help significantly improve recreation and other community services and facilities for our residents, as well as help support the long term sustainability of community groups and organisations, including sports clubs, which continue to operate in a difficult financial environment.
“A trust would give greater scope for us to work more closely with communities and community groups. It would also establish a more business-focused management approach, and help us attract other forms of funding and investment without jeopardising local organisations that rely on community grants.”
Facilities the trust could be used to develop and manage include the Taita Sport and Community Centre and Fraser Park Sportsville.
A copy of the Community Facilities Trust proposal can be picked up from Council’s building on Laings Road or the War Memorial Library. It is also available at www.huttcity.govt.nz/haveyoursay.