Notice of the Ordinary meeting of

Nelson City Council

Te Kaunihera o Whakatū

 

Date:                      Thursday 1 July 2021

Time:                      9.00a.m.

Location:                 Council Chamber
Civic House
110 Trafalgar Street, Nelson

Agenda

Rārangi take

Chairperson                    Her Worship the Mayor Rachel Reese

Deputy Mayor                 Cr Judene Edgar

Members                        Cr Yvonne Bowater

        Cr Trudie Brand

        Cr Mel Courtney

        Cr Kate Fulton

        Cr Matt Lawrey

        Cr Rohan O'Neill-Stevens

        Cr Brian McGurk

        Cr Gaile Noonan

        Cr Pete Rainey

        Cr Rachel Sanson

        Cr Tim Skinner

Quorum:   7                                                                                 Pat Dougherty

Chief Executive

Nelson City Council Disclaimer

Please note that the contents of these Council and Committee agendas have yet to be considered by Council and officer recommendations may be altered or changed by the Council in the process of making the formal Council decision. For enquiries call (03) 5460436.


Council Values

 

Following are the values agreed during the 2019 – 2022 term:

 

A. Whakautetanga: respect

B. Kōrero Pono: integrity

C. Māiatanga: courage

D. Whakamanatanga: effectiveness

E. Whakamōwaitanga: humility

F. Kaitiakitanga: stewardship

G. Manaakitanga: generosity of spirit

 

 


Nelson City Council

1 July 2021

 

 

Page No.

 

Karakia and Mihi Timatanga

1.       Apologies

Nil

2.       Confirmation of Order of Business

3.       Interests

3.1      Updates to the Interests Register

3.2      Identify any conflicts of interest in the agenda

4.       Public Forum

5.       Code of Conduct Independent Investigation Report      8 - 44

Document number R25995

Recommendation

That the Council

1.    Receives the report Code of Conduct Independent Investigation Report  (R25995) and its attachments (A2504147, A2692456 and A2691195); and

2.    Agrees with the conclusions of the independent investigation that:

a.     Councillor Skinner has breached section 5.3 of the Code of Conduct and his actions have not contributed to the trust and respect of the Council by the Nelson community; and

b.    Councillor Skinner’s actions on social media, while not necessarily breaching section 6 of the Code of Conduct, have been unwise.

3.    Requires the following in accordance with section 13.1 of the Code of Conduct:

a.     That Councillor Skinner provide a genuine and fulsome public apology to the protestor and to his fellow elected members; and

b.    That Councillor Skinner be stood down from his role as Chair of the Community and Recreation Committee for the duration of one round of committee meetings

4.    Notes that, subject to Councillor Skinner complying with the penalties imposed, this will be the full and final resolution of this Code of Conduct matter.

 

 

6.       Nelson Regional Development Agency Statement of Intent 2021 - 2024                                                                     45 - 102

Document number R25848

Recommendation

That the Council

1.    Receives the report Nelson Regional Development Agency Statement of Intent 2021 - 2024 (R25848) and its attachment (A2679638); and

2.    Agrees that the Nelson Regional Development Agency Statement of Intent 2021-24 meets Council’s expectations and is approved as the final Statement of Intent for 2021-24.

 

 

7.       Recommendations from Committees                                   

7.1          Regional Transport Committee 29 June 2021

7.1.1     Nelson Tasman 2021 – 31 Regional Public Transport Plan

The following recommendation was a draft at the time of printing the Agenda:

Recommendation to Council

That the Council

1.    Approves the Nelson Regional Public Transport Plan 2021-2031 (A2679732 of Report R25893) for submission to Waka Kotahi prior to 2 July 2021.

 

 

8.       Mayor's Report                                                      103 - 198

Document number R25866

Recommendation

That the Council

1.    Receives the report Mayor's Report (R25866) and its attachment(A2688382, A2692426 and A2692427); and

2.    Supports the proposed Remits to the Local Government New Zealand AGM 2021, as discussed.

 

 

9.       Status Report - Council                                          199 - 204

Document number R25992

Recommendation

That the Council

1.    Receives the report Status Report - Council (R25992) and its attachment (A1168168).

 

  

Confidential Business

10.     Exclusion of the Public

Recommendation

That the Council

1.        Excludes the public from the following parts of the proceedings of this meeting.

2.        The general subject of each matter to be considered while the public is excluded, the reason for passing this resolution in relation to each matter and the specific grounds under section 48(1) of the Local Government Official Information and Meetings Act 1987 for the passing of this resolution are as follows: 

 

Item

General subject of each matter to be considered

Reason for passing this resolution in relation to each matter

Particular interests protected (where applicable)

1

Recommendations from Committees

 

Section 48(1)(a)

The public conduct of this matter would be likely to result in disclosure of information for which good reason exists under section 7

The withholding of the information is necessary:

·   Section 7(2)(a)

     To protect the privacy of natural persons, including that of a deceased person

·   Section 7(2)(i)

     To enable the local authority to carry on, without prejudice or disadvantage, negotiations (including commercial and industrial negotiations)

2

Mayor's Report

 

Section 48(1)(a)

The public conduct of this matter would be likely to result in disclosure of information for which good reason exists under section 7

The withholding of the information is necessary:

·   Section 7(2)(a)

     To protect the privacy of natural persons, including that of a deceased person

·   Section 7(2)(h)

     To enable the local authority to carry out, without prejudice or disadvantage, commercial activities

3

Status Report - Council - Confidential

 

Section 48(1)(a)

The public conduct of this matter would be likely to result in disclosure of information for which good reason exists under section 7

The withholding of the information is necessary:

·   Section 7(2)(a)

     To protect the privacy of natural persons, including that of a deceased person

·   Section 7(2)(g)

     To maintain legal professional privilege

·   Section 7(2)(h)

     To enable the local authority to carry out, without prejudice or disadvantage, commercial activities

4

Kāinga Ora Housing Developments

 

Section 48(1)(a)

The public conduct of this matter would be likely to result in disclosure of information for which good reason exists under section 7

The withholding of the information is necessary:

·   Section 7(2)(g)

     To maintain legal professional privilege

·   Section 7(2)(h)

     To enable the local authority to carry out, without prejudice or disadvantage, commercial activities

·   Section 7(2)(i)

     To enable the local authority to carry on, without prejudice or disadvantage, negotiations (including commercial and industrial negotiations)

 

 

Karakia Whakamutanga

 

  

  


 

Item 5: Code of Conduct Independent Investigation Report

 

Council

1 July 2021

 

 

REPORT R25995

Code of Conduct Independent Investigation Report

 

 

1.       Purpose of Report

1.1      To consider the independent investigation into the Code of Conduct complaint against Councillor Skinner relating to events on 11 March 2021.

2.       Summary

2.1      The Chief Executive received a Code of Conduct complaint regarding the alleged behaviour of Councillor Skinner towards a member of the public on 11 March 2021 and subsequent social media comments made in relation to the incident.

2.2      As the complaint was laid by the Mayor, the Deputy Mayor took on the lead role in overseeing the Code of Conduct process. In line with the Code of Conduct, instead of undertaking an initial assessment, the complaint was immediately referred to the independent investigator, via the Chief Executive.

2.3      The report of the independent investigation has now been received. In accordance with the Code the Chief Executive is providing the report to Council for consideration.

2.4      Jonathan Salter of Simpson Grierson will be in attendance via Zoom to provide legal advice on matters to take into account regarding elected member participation in consideration of this matter.

3.       Recommendation

 

That the Council

1.    Receives the report Code of Conduct Independent Investigation Report  (R25995) and its attachments (A2504147, A2692456 and A2691195); and

2.    Agrees with the conclusions of the independent investigation that:

a.     Councillor Skinner has breached section 5.3 of the Code of Conduct and his actions have not contributed to the trust and respect of the Council by the Nelson community; and

b.    Councillor Skinner’s actions on social media, while not necessarily breaching section 6 of the Code of Conduct, have been unwise.

3.    Requires the following in accordance with section 13.1 of the Code of Conduct:

a.     That Councillor Skinner provide a genuine and fulsome public apology to the protestor and to his fellow elected members; and

b.    That Councillor Skinner be stood down from his role as Chair of the Community and Recreation Committee for the duration of one round of committee meetings

4.    Notes that, subject to Councillor Skinner complying with the penalties imposed, this will be the full and final resolution of this Code of Conduct matter.

 

 

4.       Background

4.1      The Code of Conduct sets out the standards of behaviour expected from elected members in the exercise of their duties.  It was adopted by Council on 31 October 2019.

4.2      On 13 April 2021, the Chief Executive received a Code of Conduct Complaint (Attachment 2: A2692456) from Mayor Reese regarding the alleged behaviour of Councillor Skinner towards a member of the public on 11 March 2021, and subsequent social media comments made in relation to the incident.

4.3      As the complainant was Her Worship the Mayor, the Deputy Mayor took on the lead role in overseeing the Code of Conduct process. In line with the Code of Conduct, instead of undertaking an initial assessment, the complaint was immediately referred to the independent investigator, via the Chief Executive.

4.4      Accordingly, Mr Bruce Robertson was engaged to undertake an independent investigation in accordance with section 12.2 and Appendix C of the Code of Conduct, and to submit a report (the Report) to the Chief Executive.

4.5      Mr Robertson advised the Chief Executive on 11 May 2021 of his preliminary assessment that Councillor Skinner’s actions were a material breach of section 5.3 of the Code of Conduct. Mr Robertson therefore proceeded to prepare a report for the Council on the seriousness of the breach and any recommended penalties or actions in accordance with the Code of Conduct process.

4.6      The Report has been received by the Chief Executive (Attachment 3: A2691195) and is now provided to Council for consideration.

5.       Discussion

Process to complete the Code of Conduct complaint

5.1      Sections 12 and 13 and Appendix C to Council's Code of Conduct set out the process requirements for the investigation and consideration of complaints. 

5.2      The principles in Part 12.1 of the Code of Conduct provide important context to the process - these include applying concepts of natural justice and fairness, having privacy respected, taking an approach that is proportionate to the seriousness of the breach and keeping the roles of complaint, investigation, advice and decision-making separate as appropriate to the nature and complexity of the alleged breach.

 

Consideration of the Independent Investigation Report

5.3      Under the Code, the Chief Executive is required to prepare a report for Council, or an adjudicative body with delegated authority, which meets to consider the findings of the independent investigation and determine whether or not a penalty, or some other form of action, will be imposed. An adjudicating body has not been established in this instance, and the matter is to be considered by Council.

5.4      Appendix C Step 5 of the Code states that members with an interest in the proceedings, including the complainant and the respondent, should not take part in these proceedings in a decision-making capacity. The participation of elected members in the Council decision-making on this matter should reflect this requirement. Any members with an interest in the matter that prevents them from approaching with an open mind should not participate in consideration of the matter. Further legal advice on this will available at the meeting.

          Options

Council has the option of agreeing to the penalties recommended in this report or considering and agreeing other outcomes for the Code of Conduct process.

 

Option 1: Complete the code of conduct process as recommended

Advantages

·   Consistent with findings and recommendations of the independent investigation

Risks and Disadvantages

·   None obvious

Option 2: Decide to apply no penalties or other penalties than those recommended

Advantages

·    Council may consider other outcomes to the Code of Conduct are more appropriate

Risks and Disadvantages

·    Not consistent with the findings and recommendations of the independent investigation

·    May mean the process is unable to be completed in a timely manner

 

 

6.       Conclusion

6.1      The independent investigation into the complaint lodged against Councillor Skinner has now been completed and Council must consider the findings and whether the application of penalties or actions is believed appropriate.

 

7.       Next Steps

7.1      The matter will be considered closed on completion of any penalties or actions imposed on Councillor Skinner.

 

Author:          Pat Dougherty, Chief Executive

Attachments

Attachment 1:   A2504147 Code of Conduct - adopted 31 October 2019

Attachment 2:   A2692456 Code of Conduct Complaint

Attachment 3:   A2691195 Independent Assessment Report  

 

Important considerations for decision making

1.   Fit with Purpose of Local Government

The Local Government Act 2002 requires that a Council adopt a Code of Conduct for its elected members. The Code forms a charter of agreed expectations on members and provides a process for when these expectations are not met.

The Code supports democratic decision-making through the maintenance of relationship and behavioural expectations amongst members.

2.   Consistency with Community Outcomes and Council Policy

Addressing Code of Conduct complaints aligns with the following community outcome:

“Our Council provides leadership and fosters partnerships, a regional perspective and community engagement”.

3.   Risk

 The risk of legal challenge in relation to the Code of Conduct complaint is considered to be low given the process outlined in the policy has been followed.

 

4.   Financial impact

There is no financial impact associated with the consideration of the independent investigation report.

5.   Degree of significance and level of engagement

Code of Conduct processes are internal matters guided by the Code of Conduct adopted by Council, and do not trigger consultation requirements.

6.   Climate Impact

This decision will have no impact on the ability of the Council to proactively respond to the impacts of climate change now or in the future.

7.   Inclusion of Māori in the decision making process

No engagement with Māori has been undertaken in preparing this report. 

8.   Delegations

This is a matter for Council. 

 

 


Item 5: Code of Conduct Independent Investigation Report: Attachment 1 A2504147

PDF Creator

PDF Creator


 

PDF Creator


 

PDF Creator


 

PDF Creator


 

PDF Creator


 

PDF Creator


 

PDF Creator


 

PDF Creator


 

PDF Creator


 

PDF Creator


 

PDF Creator


 

PDF Creator


 

PDF Creator


 

PDF Creator


 

PDF Creator


 

PDF Creator


 

PDF Creator


 

PDF Creator


 

PDF Creator


 

PDF Creator


 

PDF Creator


Item 5: Code of Conduct Independent Investigation Report: Attachment 2

PDF Creator


PDF Creator


Item 5: Code of Conduct Independent Investigation Report: Attachment 3 A2691195

PDF Creator

PDF Creator


 

PDF Creator


 

PDF Creator


 

PDF Creator


 

PDF Creator


 

PDF Creator


 

Item 6: Nelson Regional Development Agency Statement of Intent 2021 - 2024

 

Council

1 July 2021

 

 

REPORT R25848

Nelson Regional Development Agency Statement of Intent 2021 - 2024

     

 

1.       Purpose of Report

1.1     To seek Council approval of the Nelson Regional Development Agency (NRDA) Statement of Intent 2021-24.

2.       Summary

2.1     The Nelson Regional Development Agency (NRDA) has provided a Statement of Intent (SOI) for Council consideration for the 2021-24 period.  The SOI responds to a Letter of Expectation provided by Council setting out long term outcomes and strategic priorities for the three year period.

2.2     The NRDA is facing financial constraints due to the impact of COVID-19 expanding its scope of operations and reducing private sector funding.  Council has agreed to a provisional increase of $350,000 per year for the SOI period, however additional funding from Tasman District Council has not been secured.  Central government funding to the NRDA has increased, primarily to support the tourism and event sectors, and is not guaranteed to continue.

2.3     The SOI responds adequately to the Letter of Expectation and highlights the shift this has required within the organisation in transitioning towards a more strategic focus.  Particular areas of increased capacity and capability building and increased focus include investment attraction, economic intelligence support, Māori economic development and a regenerative approach to destination management.  The SoI highlights extended workforce development as an area of activity which is currently constrained and not included in core funding.  The SoI highlights significant leverage of central government regional development funding from local government funding.   

 

3.       Recommendation

 

That the Council

1.    Receives the report Nelson Regional Development Agency Statement of Intent 2021 - 2024 (R25848) and its attachment (A2679638); and

2.    Agrees that the Nelson Regional Development Agency Statement of Intent 2021-24 meets Council’s expectations and is approved as the final Statement of Intent for 2021-24.

 

a

 

 

4.       Background

4.1      The NRDA, along with the other Council Controlled Organisations (CCO), must submit a draft Statement of Intent indicating its proposed activities for the following year.  Schedule 8 of the Local Government Act outlines the purpose of a SOI, what is to be included and how it is to be approved. The draft SOI 2021-24 prepared by the NRDA, in collaboration with NCC, is attached (Attachment 1). The SOI, as supplied by the NRDA, is compliant.  This is the first time the SOI covers a three year period which enables longer term planning.  The NRDA still needs to provide an updated SOI every year to reflect any changes to the work programme. Council will not need to provide a new Letter of Expectation in the intervening years unless a change in direction is required.

4.2      A Letter of Expectation for the NRDA was agreed at the 18 March 2021 Council meeting. The Letter of Expectation set out a list of long term outcomes and strategic priorities that the NRDA is expected to work towards over the 2021-24 Statement of Intent period. 

4.3      Long term outcomes focused on achieving a regenerative, productive, inclusive, resilient and creative economy.  Strategic priorities included integrating climate change, wellbeing, economic resilience across work programmes, leading Project Kōkiri 2.0, support for sector transitions and Māori economic development, leading economic insight, analysis, and business case development, and assisting in analysis for enabling infrastructure. 

4.4      At the Long Term Plan deliberations meeting on 18 May 2021 (R24777), Council agreed to an increase in funding for Project Kōkiri 2.

Resolved CL/2021/092

Approves, subject to Council adopting Project Kōkiri 2, provision of up to $350,000 per annum additional funding in Years 1 to 3 of the Long Term Plan 2021-31 for implementation of Project Kōkiri 2.

4.5      The NRDA Chair Meg Matthews, and Chief Executive, Fiona Wilson, and the NRDA management team, will attend the meeting to answer any questions about the SOI.

5.       Discussion

5.1      Consideration of the current economic context, the previous year’s delivery of Project Kōkiri, and the requirements set out in the Letter of Expectation alongside the activity proposed in the SOI is provided in the following section.

Nelson Tasman economy continues to show resilience   

5.2      The Nelson-Tasman economy contracted slightly (-0.8%) over the year to March 2021, a better result than the overall three percent contraction in the national economy.  Consumer and business confidence are relatively resilient.  Data from Marketview shows consumer spending declining by 0.9 percent per annum over the year to March 2021, once again a better result than the 3.8 percent decline recorded nationally. Non-residential construction was strong, with the value of non-residential consents increasing by 19.5 percent over the year to March 2021, including the lockdown period in 2020. Tourism spending declined by 3.9 percent, far less than the 16.6 percent decline nationally. This suggests that the region benefitted from domestic tourism activity over the high season.

5.3      Labour supply constraints remain, with the average unemployment rate over the year to March 2021 at 3.2 percent, compared to 4.7 percent nationally. Employment of Nelson-Tasman residents increased by 0.8 percent for the year, while population growth remained positive, with GP health enrolments (a proxy for population growth) increasing by 1.8 percent per annum.  Jobseeker numbers continued to retreat from their high in the September 2020 quarter. However, the effects of COVID-19 are clear, with the average number of Jobseeker Support recipients over the year to March 2021 being 38.3 percent up on the previous year.

5.4      Overall, the Nelson-Tasman economy continues to show resilience, although continued tightness in the housing and labour market may inhibit further recovery over the next few quarters.

          Project Kōkiri progress 2020-21

5.5      As the custodian of Project Kōkiri over the last year, the NRDA has increased its profile as a strategic leader for economic development in the region.  The NRDA has led and facilitated Project Kōkiri and a range of initiatives and campaigns carried out as part of this. 

5.6      The NRDA received increased funding from both local and central government sources, to deliver Project Kōkiri and make up for the shortfall from private sector funding. Nelson City Council provided an additional $250,000 for the year 2020/21, and Tasman District Council provided $200,000. The NRDA received a total of $1.48 million over the  year from central government to provide a range of programmes, including the Regional Business Partner Network’s Business Continuity Planning programme, Tourism Transition Funding, development of a Destination Management Plan, establishment of a Te Tauihu Regional Events Fund, and work in the Education to Employment space. 

5.7      The NRDA has supported businesses during the significant uncertainty that COVID-19 has created. For many businesses in the tourism sector, such as hospitality and recreation, the last 12 months has required a change in approach to ensure ongoing viability.  Over 2020/21, the NRDA adapted to the changing situation and adjusted its work programme as necessary. Project Kōkiri workstreams have largely been delivered as expected.

5.8      It is expected that the impact of COVID-19 on local businesses and the community will continue for the foreseeable future.  While the vaccine rollout is occurring domestically and in key trading markets, there remains a significant degree of uncertainty as to how the ongoing impact of COVID-19 will influence economic outcomes globally.  Opening of borders will be slow and cautious, along the lines of how this has occurred with Australia.

          NRDA Statement of Intent 2021-24

5.9      The proposed SOI provides a plan for the NRDA to respond appropriately to the LOE from Council for the next three years. 

5.10    The 2021-24 SOI provides a new Strategic Framework Model for the agency.  This outlines how the NRDA’s activities will deliver short to medium term outcomes that link to Council’s LOE long term outcomes. The SOI includes four strategic priority activity areas.

5.10.1 Economic strategy and innovation

·   Strategic economic development

·   Te Tauihu Māori economy

·   Economic intelligence

5.10.2 Industry sector resilience

·   Sector transitions and growth

·   Tourism sector regeneration

5.10.3 Investment Attraction and Promotion

·   Regional identity and proposition

·   Investment attraction

·   Destination profiling

·   Strategic events

5.10.4 Business and workforce development

·   Business support

·   Workforce and skills development

·   Business innovation

           Enhanced role in economic development, industry sector development and regeneration

5.11    The proposal provides for growth in the economic development capability and capacity of the agency.  This SOI includes the introduction of new elements of activity such as greater resource for investment attraction, economic intelligence for the region, as well as increased partnership in the Māori economy.  This is critical to enable the agency to deliver a similar range of services provided by other regional economic development agencies. 

5.12    Over the next three years, the NRDA will support the implementation the Regeneration Plan for the region, the next phase of Project Kōkiri. The draft Regeneration Plan outlines three core ideas to focus on for regional development.  These are: 1. We are Intelligent Guardians 2. We Are Makers and Creators and 3. We are Clever and Connected.   There are a range of actions proposed to be delivered with stakeholders under each of those areas such as, the Science and Tech Precinct, proposed Climatorium, Destination Management Plans, Arts and Artisan Events, an Artisan Hub, developing the Mahitahi Colab further, and People Friendly transport solutions.  These actions will be delivered through a range of public, private and community stakeholders.  Funding for implementation will be needed from either public or private sources.  The SOI enables the NRDA to progress delivery of this Regeneration Plan.  A draft version of the Regeneration Plan will be circulated to Elected Members as soon as it is available.

The NRDA will support collaboration across a range of sectors to respond to central government policy priorities regarding industry transformation, migration settings regarding seasonal labour, climate change adaptation and mitigation including just transitions, the importance of the Māori economy, and technology change.  

Building Nelson Tasman’s profile and proposition to attract people, business, and investment

5.13    Nelson Tasman has enhanced its brand presence across New Zealand through some key campaigns in 2020-21 such as “We’ve Got This/Kei a Tātou” and “Pick Nelson Tasman”.  These campaigns leveraged the work previously carried out to develop the Nelson Tasman regional identity.  Over the next three years, the NRDA wants to expand on this platform to showcase the region’s clever people and businesses further to attract visitors, talent, and investment.

5.14    Work will continue to attract visitors to the region through profiling Nelson-Tasman as a place to visit for New Zealanders, Australians, and other countries as border restrictions allow.

5.15    This workstream includes activity to develop business cases for attracting public and private investment (such as those associated with the Science and Technology precinct).  Additional Council funding enables the establishment of a new role to support this work. 

5.16    The NRDA is managing implementation of a central government Regional Events Fund worth $1.5m over four years to support activation of events across Te Tauihu, offsetting lost international tourism. This will complement and leverage the local competitive Nelson Events Fund, which the NRDA also manages on behalf of Council to deliver both economic and community focused events.

           Supporting businesses and people to upskill and grow

5.17    The NRDA will maintain delivery of the Regional Business Partners Programme across Te Tauihu in collaboration with partners such as the Chamber of Commerce and Nelson Tasman Business Trust.  The RBP programme delivers one-to-one business support, and support to access R&D funding, as well as business mentoring.  This current programme funded by New Zealand Trade and Enterprise/Callaghan is due for renewal in July 2021 but is expected to rollover as per the current arrangement due to the impact of COVID-19.

5.18    The NRDA has increased its profile in providing support to employment programmes throughout 2020-21.  The NRDA has delivered a range of programmes on behalf of the Ministry of Social Development (MSD) targeting those recently unemployed due to COVID-19 as well as youth, particularly those not in employment, education or training (NEETs).  The NRDA has established both an intern and graduate programme for the region, supporting young people to find employment with key organisations with the goal of keeping young talent within the region. This work is not fully funded under the current SOI due to funding constraints.

5.19    The Regional Skills Leadership Group will provide the leadership role in analysing and facilitating work to determine the key labour challenges and opportunities for the region.  The NRDA can play a role in promoting and facilitating change across a range of sectors to address these challenges and opportunities. 

5.20    The NRDA provides a leadership role in developing Nelson Tasman’s innovation ecosystem through growth of the Mahitahi Colab and the Innovation Neighbourhood.  These initiatives bring together the region’s leading business organisations to identify collaborative opportunities to address common challenges such as seasonal labour challenges, adoption of new technology such as artificial intelligence, and adaptation to climate change.

5.21    These business and workforce work programme areas remain relatively consistent with what was delivered over the 2020-21 period.

          Alignment with Council’s Letter of Expectation

5.22    The NRDA’s SOI for 2021-24 responds to Council’s Letter of Expectation as outlined below. The staff review of the SOI highlighted some areas to monitor over the three years of delivery. 

Long Term Outcome/Strategic Priority

NRDA SOI 2021-24

Areas to monitor

Produ   Productive Economy

Regenerative Economy

Inclusive Economy

Resilient Economy

Creative Economy

The SOI incorporates a Strategic Framework that links priority areas and outputs enabling the delivery of short to medium outcomes and regional long term outcomes.

There is reference to these long term outcomes throughout the SOI as well as inclusion in the draft Regeneration Plan.

Ensure that Regeneration Plan provides direction linked to long term outcomes

Explore development of a collaborative wellbeing outcomes measurement framework to measure data over medium to long term. 

Integrating wellbeing

Integrating resilience

Integrating climate change

There is recognition in the SOI that the region faces inherent economic challenges such low productivity and wages, climate change and environmental challenges, and a need for greater economic resilience. Work programmes have been designed (in part) to respond to the needs and opportunities that these challenges present the region.

- Ensure work programmes are evidence based.   Introduction of a wellbeing performance measurement for Nelson-Tasman.

- Recognition of need to enhance staff capacity in these areas.

- Introduction of sector transitions work programme

- Closer working partnership with Te Tauihu iwi and Māori businesses

Ensure clarity of strategy for how to improve wellbeing, resilience, and climate change outcomes for the region.  Work to ensure this is developed through Regeneration Plan.

Requires strong collaboration and partnership with other stakeholders. Risk as to whether NRDA resourced sufficiently to cover wide range of issues.

Leading Project Kōkiri 2.0 (delivery of Regeneration Plan).

Delivered through SOI through existing staff resources.

Ensure alignment with Marlborough region in liaising with central government regarding economic strategy work and funding opportunities.

 

Support for sector transitions and Māori economic development

Defined new output areas in SOI.  Delivered through current staff resource.

 

Risk that businesses lack the resources and capacity to become involved in sector transitions work.

Ensure Māori economic development includes economy employing Māori people.

Monitor how Māori economic development and sector transitions work progressed, given level of resourcing available.

 

 

Leading economic insight, analysis, and business case development, and assisting in analysis for enabling infrastructure

Enhanced area of activity in SOI. Additional staff resource allocated for Investment Attraction.  Some additional funding available for external contracts for economic impact modelling.

Prioritises enhancement to connectivity and communication with both councils.

How will enhanced connectivity be operationalised?

           Financial analysis

5.23    The NRDA made an initial request to both councils of $770,000 increased funding per annum to deliver the Statement of Intent.  This level of funding has not been secured, and therefore prioritisation of activities has been necessary. Council has agreed a provisional increase of $350,000 per annum in addition to core funding levels of $917,000 (inflation adjusted) plus a $74,000 contract for managing delivery of the Council Events Fund.  This contract fee and the agreed increase have been incorporated into core funding resulting in a total level of SOI funding for 2021-22 of $1,341,000.

5.24    With the additional $350,000 in funding from Council, the NRDA will be able to continue with some additional activity started in the first year of Project Kōkiri such as leading the Regeneration Plan, Sector Development Program (Food & Beverage and Horticulture) now through Sector Transitions (not at level desired), Investment Attraction, Destination Management Plan for the tourism sector, increased economic intelligence, and a refresh of the regional identity work. 

5.25    However, the funding secured enables an increase of only one additional FTE, and limited funding for actual programme delivery.  Areas that have been not been resourced as the NRDA would like to deliver on the Letter of Expectation include the sector transitions work, additional staff resource in Māori economic development, and the workforce development programmes.  This may be revised if additional funding from central government is secured.

5.26    Private sector funding to the NRDA has significantly decreased since COVID-19 (from around $500k pa to $100k pa.).  This has primarily been replaced by central government funding.  Private sector investment is budgeted at $100,000; $150,000 and $200,000 over the three years of the SOI period.

5.27    TDC has provisionally agreed to fund the NRDA $325,000 per annum for the next three years, subject to adoption of its Long Term Plan on 30 June 2021.  This is an increase of around $20,000 on core funding levels over the last two years (not including the one-off Project Kōkiri increase).

5.28    There is ongoing uncertainty about the scale and scope of any additional central government funding.  A total allocation of central government funding has been announced for supporting the implementation of the Destination Management Plans through the Strategic Tourism Assets Protection Programme across the country, yet the full requirements of how this can be spent are not yet known.  Maintenance of local government funding is required to access central government funding in most cases.

5.29    Ongoing central government funding is set out as below:

 

2021-22

2022-23

2023-24

Regional Business Partners Programme

$345,000

$345,000

$345,000

Employment to Education

$145,000

 

 

Regional Events Fund (management fee)

$268,500

$268,500

$189,000

Strategic Tourism Assets Protection Programme

TBC $1.0m

TBC$700,000

TBC $500,000

Total

$1,758,500 TBC

$1,313,500 TBC

$1,034,000 TBC

Leverage to Council funding

1:1.3

1:1

1:0.7

5.30    Council funding for the NRDA enables significant leveraging of central government funding, that wouldn’t be available to the region otherwise, ranging from 1:1.3 to 1:0.7 over the three year period at this point.  Central government funding bolsters economic development investment in the region in areas of business support, destination management and workforce development that core funding from councils could not deliver alone.

5.31    Council investment provides a platform to deliver this funding, and the increased funding over the next three years enables complementary investment in core economic development services.  This includes delivery of a Regeneration Plan, economic intelligence, investment attraction through business case development, and facilitating partnerships across business, sector organisations, iwi, and a range of government agencies that would not otherwise occur.

I-Site operations

5.32    The SOI budget currently includes funding through to December 2021 towards the operation of the Nelson i-Site at a deficit of $75,000. A review of the national i-Site model is currently underway. 

6.                 Options

6.1      Council can approve the SOI or can provide feedback to the NRDA in respect of changes to the SOI. 

 

7.       Conclusion

7.1      Officers are of the opinion that the draft SOI adequately aligns with Council expectations and can be adopted as the final SOI for 2020/21.

8.       Next Steps

8.1     If agreed, officers will advise the NRDA that the SOI is approved.  If not agreed, officers will advise of necessary changes to the SOI.

 

Author:          Jessica Bensemann, Nelson Tasman Economic Portfolio Manager

Attachments

Attachment 1:   A2679638 NRDA SOI 2021 - 24

Attachment 2:   A2612844 Letter of Expectation to Nelson Regional Development Agency 2021-24   

 

Important considerations for decision making

1.   Fit with Purpose of Local Government

Section 64 of the Local Government Act requires the adoption of a Statement of Intent for every CCO.

2.   Consistency with Community Outcomes and Council Policy

The recommendation aligns with the following outcomes: ‘Our Council provides leadership and fosters partnerships, a regional perspective, and community engagement’ and ‘Our region is supported by an innovative and sustainable economy’.

3.   Risk

 There is a large degree of uncertainty related to international and national events that will have an impact on the economic outlook and recovery for Nelson/Tasman.  These risks need to be managed on an ongoing basis and are built into the adaptive approach that is taken in Project Kōkiri by the NRDA.

In particular, the timing of vaccine rollouts and progressive border reopening will greatly impact the ability of many business associated with the tourism sector to survive through this period.  This will impact on how effective Project Kōkiri can be in supporting businesses and the options available to promote Nelson as a destination beyond the domestic market.

Aspects of Project Kōkiri are dependent on the nature of central government funding support that is made available for the ongoing COVID-19 recovery. 

Continued support from partners and stakeholders such as councils and businesses is critical to the successful delivery of Project Kōkiri.

4.   Financial impact

The additional $350,000 of funding allocation for the three year period has been budgeted in the Long Term Plan 2021-31. 

5.   Degree of significance and level of engagement

The adoption of the SOI is of low significance to the community, business, and iwi.  Engagement has been carried out with business and iwi during the development process of Project Kōkiri, and key stakeholders will be involved on an ongoing basis through Project Kōkiri leadership and management groups.

6.   Climate Impact

Project Kōkiri and the NRDA acknowledge that climate change is one of the major risks facing the region.   Components of delivering on the necessary transition towards a low carbon and more resilient economy will be factored into the work of the NRDA.

Several key activities to deliver in the areas of climate change and sustainability are included in the SOI, such as the development of a low-carbon Destination Management Plan, maintaining a strong dialogue and identifying collaborative opportunities with Businesses for Climate Action.

 

7.   Inclusion of Māori in the decision making process

No engagement with Māori has been undertaken in preparing this report.

8.   Delegations

Council retains all responsibilities, powers, functions and duties in relation to governance matters for the following items: 

·    Regional economic development, including Nelson Regional Development Agency and Uniquely Nelson

 

 


Item 6: Nelson Regional Development Agency Statement of Intent 2021 - 2024: Attachment 1

PDF Creator


PDF Creator


 

PDF Creator


 

PDF Creator


 

PDF Creator


 

PDF Creator


 

PDF Creator


 

PDF Creator


 

PDF Creator


 

PDF Creator


 

PDF Creator


 

PDF Creator


 

PDF Creator


 

PDF Creator


 

PDF Creator


 

PDF Creator


 

PDF Creator


 

PDF Creator


 

PDF Creator


 

PDF Creator


 

PDF Creator


 

PDF Creator


 

PDF Creator


 

PDF Creator


 

PDF Creator


 

PDF Creator


 

PDF Creator


 

PDF Creator


 

PDF Creator


 

PDF Creator


 

PDF Creator


 

PDF Creator


 

PDF Creator


 

PDF Creator


 

PDF Creator


 

PDF Creator


 

PDF Creator


 

PDF Creator


 

PDF Creator


 

PDF Creator


 

PDF Creator


Item 6: Nelson Regional Development Agency Statement of Intent 2021 - 2024: Attachment 2

PDF Creator

PDF Creator


 

PDF Creator


 

PDF Creator


 

Item 8: Mayor's Report

 

Council

1 July 2021

 

 

REPORT R25866

Mayor's Report

     

 

1.       Purpose of Report

1.1      To update Council on current matters.

 

 

 

2.       Recommendation

 

That the Council

1.    Receives the report Mayor's Report (R25866) and its attachment(A2688382, A2692426 and A2692427); and

2.    Supports the proposed Remits to the Local Government New Zealand AGM 2021, as discussed.

 

 

 

2. Mayoral Discretionary Fund

2.1      The Mayor donated $500.00 from her Mayoral Discretionary Fund as a contribution towards costs associated with the engagement of Olivershaw Ltd by the Central Otago District Council on behalf of the Mayors of 20 winegrowing districts to lobby the Government for an excise-tax exemption or reduction for small producer wine growers.  Olivershaw Ltd are experts in tax policy, tax economics and tax advice, and have been commissioned to write a report to be presented to the Government by a governance group comprising 4 Mayors and wine growing industry representatives.

2.2      The Mayor approved funding of $1,503.47 from her Mayoral Discretionary Fund to cover airfare costs for James Alan Reneti who the Mayor is mentoring under the Tuia Rangatira Leadership programme.  James attended two huis as part of this programme – one in Hamilton in March and the other in Dunedin in May 2021. 

2.3      The Mayor donated $500.00 from her Mayoral Discretionary Fund as a contribution towards costs associated with hosting the event “Real Talk Nelson” which was held in Nelson on 19 June.  This event was created as a platform to allow Rangatahi to share their stories to inspire and empower others with a focus on the collective health of mind, body and soul.  Subjects covered included – suicide, mental health awareness, death and grief, sexual and physical abuse, gangs and domestic violence, drug and alcohol addition, teen pregnancy and career and business aspirations.

2.4      The Mayor approved funding of $528.98 from her Mayoral Discretionary Fund to cover airfare costs for James Alan Reneti who the Mayor is mentoring under the Tuia Rangatira Leadership programme.  James attended a hui in Rotorua in July 2021.

2.5      The Mayor donated $1,000.00 from her Mayoral Discretionary Fund to sponsor the Smart Little City category of the Eelco Boswijk Awards which are being held on 8 September.

3. Local Government New Zealand AGM 2021 Remits

3.1      The 2021 LGNZ Annual General Meeting (AGM) Remits are attached (A2688382). Remits are sent out as part of the AGM Business Papers prior to the AGM to allow members sufficient time to review and discuss. 

3.2      There are a 7 Remits to be considered at the AGM:

1.  Tree Protection

2.  Rating Value of Forestry Land

3.  Funding of Civics Education

4.  Promoting local government electoral participation

5.  Carbon emission inventory standards and reduction targets

6.  WINZ Accommodation Supplement

7.  Liability – Building consent functions

4. Wine excise tax proposal

4.1   In November 2020 a joint letter on behalf of 20 Mayors of wine-growing districts (Nelson and Tasman included) was sent to Hon Stuart Nash, Minister of Economic and Regional Development.  The letter was seeking support for relief from excise tax on small wine producers so they could survive the impact of COVID-19. In March the Mayor of Central Otago District Council, Tim Cadogan, followed this up with another letter discussing the wine excise tax proposal, including background documents (Attachment 2 A2692426).

4.2   Minister for Finance Hon Grant Robertson has provided a reply, explaining that he is responsible for the policy settings on excise tax. His reply refers wine producers to the Customs Service if they are finding it difficult to meet their excise obligations. (Attachment 3, A2692427)

5. Update from the Chair of Strategic Development and Property Committee

5.1   Decisions of Strategic Development and Property Subcommittee:

·   Confirmation of minutes 1 April 2021 meeting;

·   Received Chair report R25897 1 June 2021.

·   The Chair report gave an update for the Marina.

·   Received Quarterly report to 31 March 2021 in relation to marina and campgrounds.

 

 

Author:          Rachel Reese, Mayor of Nelson

Attachments

Attachment 1:   A2688382 LGNZ AGM 2021 Remits

Attachment 2:   A2692426 Letter to Minister Nash 18 March 2021

Attachment 3:   A2692427 Letter from Minister Robertson 5 May 2021    


Item 8: Mayor's Report: Attachment 1

PDF Creator


PDF Creator


 

PDF Creator


 

PDF Creator


 

PDF Creator


 

PDF Creator


 

PDF Creator


 

PDF Creator


 

PDF Creator


 

PDF Creator


 

PDF Creator


 

PDF Creator


PDF Creator


PDF Creator


PDF Creator


 

PDF Creator


 

PDF Creator


 

PDF Creator


 

PDF Creator


 

PDF Creator


 

PDF Creator


 

PDF Creator


 

PDF Creator


 

PDF Creator


 

PDF Creator


 

PDF Creator


 

PDF Creator


 

PDF Creator


 

PDF Creator


 

PDF Creator


 

PDF Creator


 

PDF Creator


 

PDF Creator


 

PDF Creator


 

PDF Creator


 

PDF Creator


 

PDF Creator


 

PDF Creator


 

PDF Creator


 

PDF Creator


 

PDF Creator


 

PDF Creator


 

PDF Creator


 

PDF Creator


 

PDF Creator


 

PDF Creator


 

PDF Creator


 

PDF Creator


 

PDF Creator


 

PDF Creator


 

PDF Creator


 

PDF Creator


 

PDF Creator


 

PDF Creator


 

PDF Creator


 

PDF Creator


 

PDF Creator


 

PDF Creator


 

PDF Creator


 

PDF Creator


 

PDF Creator


 

PDF Creator


 

PDF Creator


 

PDF Creator


 

PDF Creator


 

PDF Creator


 

PDF Creator


 

PDF Creator


 

PDF Creator


 

PDF Creator


 

PDF Creator


 

PDF Creator


 

PDF Creator


 

PDF Creator


 

PDF Creator


 

PDF Creator


Item 8: Mayor's Report: Attachment 2 A2692426

PDF Creator


PDF Creator


 

PDF Creator


 

PDF Creator


 

PDF Creator


 

PDF Creator


 

PDF Creator


 

PDF Creator


 

PDF Creator


 

PDF Creator


 

PDF Creator


 

PDF Creator


 

PDF Creator


 

PDF Creator


 

PDF Creator


 

PDF Creator


Item 8: Mayor's Report: Attachment 3 A2692427

PDF Creator


 

Item 9: Status Report - Council

 

Council

1 July 2021

 

 

REPORT R25992

Status Report - Council

 

1.       Purpose of Report

1.1     

 

2.       Recommendation

 

That the Council

1.    Receives the report Status Report - Council (R25992) and its attachment (A1168168).

 

 

3.       Background

3.1      text

4.       Conclusion

4.1      text

 

 

Author:          Robyn Byrne, Team Leader Governance

Attachments

Attachment 1:   A1168168 Status Report - Council   


Item 9: Status Report - Council: Attachment 1

PDF Creator


PDF Creator


 

PDF Creator


 

PDF Creator


 

PDF Creator