Letters
Integrity of council decisions
People have asked me why TDC refuses to enforce district plan noise rules for motocross bikes. After all they stopped Motueka High from having music at their school fundraiser and they blocked the winegrowers from installing frost fans to protect their crops.
Well, the short answer is the Nelson Motorcycle Club has taken a “controlling interest” in council decisions. The dozen or so families spread across the district who find themselves next to NMC tracks are quietly being rolled to protect the interests of the club. Not a pressing election issue maybe, but it does reflect on the integrity of the current council. I think we should be choosing councillors who are prepared to stand up and protect the rights of Golden Bay residents, not roll over and have their tummies rubbed by large self-interest groups. At the “Meet the Candidates” I found Martine Bouillir, Alan Blackie and Victoria Davis the most convincing on this point.
John Salmon
New Zealand clean and green
Through The GB Weekly, I would like to notify certain organisations: TDC, DOC, aquamarine, etc about a suspicious container left up by the fence, right-hand side coming into Onekaka. Been there for ages.
I took a look to see what it was. It’s marked poison, diluted ethelene glyco antifreeze. One whiff will kill dogs and cats, cattle and fish? Why has no organisation removed it? Answers or excuses welcome.
Ernie Morris
Local body elections
It was encouraging to see Victoria Davis state in the local body candidate information booklet what she actually has done, avoiding use of vague words like leadership, good communicator, committed and passionate. These words tell us nothing - actions speak.
And how refreshing to be spared disclosure of one’s children and personal interests as if these accessories are a prerequisite to good decision-making. It’s about time we had smart progressive council.
Take action, post back your vote.
Linda O’Connor
Democratic School
I would just like to extend a huge thank you to all those who made the effort to come to the Democratic Schooling presentation last Saturday. We had a turnout of over 50 people, which considering the weather, was fantastic.
As a result of the presentation and the ensuing discussion, it is quite clear that there is a great desire to start such a school in Golden Bay. Many offers of help and resources have already been received since the presentation.
Verena Gruner and her colleagues gave us a vision of what is possible. They showed us how education really should be; one that inspires the children and brings out their unique talents and gifts and one which is based on the principles of honoring human rights and respect, at all levels. Such a school belongs in Golden Bay. And with the people and resources we have currently in the Bay, I know it will become a reality.
I will announce the next meeting shortly to get the ball rolling. I have created a website where people can read, listen and watch to learn more about Democratic Education <www.democraticschoolgoldenbay.info>.
Pew Singh
Bay Lit
Big thanks to GB Arts for the opportunity for the writers of the Bay to have their work critiqued and reviewed by their peers. The announcing of the Bay Lit entries was another great night, and on behalf of all the winners I’d like to thank the organisers of the event, and special thanks to the anonymous donor for the generous prize money.
Paddy Brennan
