Future of eco adviser role weighed

The Government's decision not to go ahead with its sustainable management fund has left the Nelson City Council debating whether to take on the full cost of its eco building design adviser.

The $67,449 annual cost would make a 0.14 per cent difference to Nelson's proposed average rates increase this year, which at the end of discussions this week over the draft annual plan had risen from 6.3 to 6.7 per cent.

In October 2008, the council created a new position for an eco building design adviser. The Energy Efficiency and Conservation Authority was part-funding the position, which the council's building inspections team leader Richard Popenhagen was appointed to.

Council chief executive Keith Marshall said in a briefing during draft annual plan discussions this week that several councillors had reflected on options, including whether the service could be privately provided.

Councillor Rachel Reese said she would like it to remain, and it sat well with the council's social wellbeing responsibility because it delivered benefits to low-income households in particular.

Council divisional manager of planning and consents, Richard Johnson, said 90 per cent of consultations so far had been on existing homes.

He said the adviser provided another important role, in guiding home owners to funds they were entitled to.

"He is unlocking government money available to people who don't know how to access it."

Councillor Derek Shaw suggested drawings on funds elsewhere in the council's budget, such as plans to extend the Founders Heritage Park railway to Trafalgar Park.

"This is a multiple benefit thing, and I would say has a higher priority than the railway."

Councillor Alison McAlpine suggested that the role might be able to be absorbed among existing staff. However, Mr Marshall said this was unlikely, given current demands.

Councillor Pete Rainey asked if it would be possible for people using the service to pay for it. Councillor Ian Barker questioned its worth when he felt there was a fair amount of duplication of the service.

The decision to fund the position will be included in the council's annual plan for public consultation.

- © Fairfax NZ News

Newest First

Oldest First