Over the past week, quite a few people have asked me how many we expected to turn up for last night’s Watercare meeting at the Warkworth Town Hall.
Truthfully, I didn’t know. The heat seemed to have gone out of the process. It wasn’t like the last public meeting, when tensions were high and the community needed a place to vent.
Back then, people were frustrated—mainly because they felt they hadn’t been kept in the loop. Once we explained the confidentiality agreement we were working under with Watercare, most understood. But they still needed to voice concerns, particularly about the proposed pipeline through town.
Forgive the pun, but a lot of water has gone under the bridge since then. We’re now in a much better place. Communication with Watercare has been excellent, and their willingness to work alongside local businesses has been first-rate.
Around 45 people attended this week’s meeting—well down from the 200+ at the previous one. While that number might seem low, I take it as a sign that our communication has been clear and effective. People feel better informed.
Much of the discussion focused on Elizabeth Street. A few businesses there felt more could have been done to keep them updated. We’ve taken that on board. We’ll be back out with Watercare and the contractor to meet with those businesses directly, and I’ll personally deliver the invitations once a date is set. If you’d prefer a one-on-one meeting with the team, just let me know—I’ll make it happen.
The questions raised were thoughtful and well-informed. I know Watercare and McConnell Dowell were genuinely impressed by the tone and substance of the conversation.
So, what do we take away from this? Is it time to move away from large public meetings, or do we still see value in them? Let me know your thoughts.
And finally, thanks to everyone who turned up on a wet night, and to Watercare and McConnell Dowell for fronting up and engaging so openly. When we communicate and work together, we get results.
We Are Stronger Together
Murray Chapman
Manager, One Mahurangi, Warkworth
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