The big news nationally in local government this week has been the changes Government is proposing for regional councils, like Environment Canterbury.

There is a lot of information that Council and Councillors need to digest on this, but essentially mayors will represent their district or city on a Combined Territorial Board (instead of a regional council) and make decisions for the region.

What does this mean for us here in the Ashburton District?

We will be taking the time needed to understand the proposed changes and give feedback to Government before the February deadline.

Why should you care? Because it is about ensuring we have a voice when regional plans are made that affect our environment and the economy – in other words how we live, work and play. As Mayor Liz has already said this week, Council wants what is best for our district.

And there will also be discussions with our neighbouring Mayors about the changes and we’ll keep the community informed.

Our new council is getting down to work and this week deliberated on changes to a Gambling Venue Policy and a Dangerous and Insanitary Buildings Policy. There are several workshops planned in the next few weeks, including an update on Government changes to the Resource Management Act, and a big focus coming up on the Annual Plan and budget.

The other big news locally is that the giant Christmas tree is now up and taking centre stage in Baring Square East.

Council’s free community Christmas event, Light up the Night, is on this Saturday and the tree will be officially lit at 9.15pm, with much fanfare! The food trucks will be open for business from 5pm and there’s a great lineup of live entertainment from 6pm.

Christmas is fast approaching and excitement is building.