More than 475 names were presented to the Mayor and his Councillors on March 16 at the Maketu-Te Puke Ward Forum.

The Rangiuru Community and extended whanau were expressing their concern regarding the Department of Corrections proposed correctional facility at 240 Rangiuru Road, Te Puke.

A meeting between Iwi and Corrections alerted the community to the proposed plan. Council had already consented the use of the accommodation from mental health respite to Corrections transitional housing 18 months previously, but at no time was notification given to the community.

Once the petition was received Council agreed to review the impact the facility will have on the well-being, safety and care of the Rangiuru Community.

So, a big thank you to the overwhelming number of Rangiuru residents who signed the petition to stop the proposed Correctional facility.

Haumi e, Hui e, Taiki e!

Colleen Pye.