I'm writing about the proposed new library and hub in Katikati. Given the huge opposition I get to the whole project being bought forward at this time from the original date of 2021. When I sat downtown getting signatures for freezing our rates, our part of the exercise got roughly 1500 people to sign in Katikati. I made a point of asking most of them if they wanted a new library - and only four said ‘Yes'. Other documents I have give the same message. I've had dozens of people approach me since the election to put off building the new library, until the financial implications are pinned down. I have met recently with some of them to further assess the situation. There are nearly 8000 people effected, but it seems to me this project is being pushed by a vocal minority. For democracy to be properly served this position needs to be quickly clarified. If I can be assured the majority want it, then I will support it completely. But this not the message I am currently getting. I'm sure it would be desirable and a-nice-to-have, and council, in all sincerity, thought Katikati wanted it, as the Katikati Community Board told them the majority wanted it, so we cannot blame council. The issue is the opinion of the majority of Katikati people – I must confirm this very soon. Some will jump up and down at this suggestion of democracy, but this is why I was elected.

Norm Mayo, Katikati Community Board member.