Meeting Notes

Opening

• Welcome to the meeting.
• Apologies: Hazel.
• Jim will leave at 1:30 for a future-proof meeting.

Motion Moved

• Moved by Lou, seconded by Susan.
• Motion carried (All in favour: Aye).

Disclosure of Members' Interests

• No disclosures today.

Late Items

• No late items to address.

Confirmation of Order of Meeting

• No changes needed.
• Guests are aware of the timing of the meeting.
• Moved by Andrew, seconded by Graeme.
• Motion carried (All in favour: Aye).

Confirmation of Minutes from Previous Meeting (18 February)

• Minutes taken as read.
• Andrew noted his name was not recorded.
• Motion to receive the amended minutes moved by Marcus and seconded by Bruce.
• Motion carried (All in favour: Aye).

Update on Tourism Sector by Jason

• Jason provided an update on the tourism sector in Waipā District.
• Significant growth in tourism before COVID-19, but now facing major challenges.
• Visitor expenditure has dropped drastically.
• Many tourism operators have temporarily closed or reduced services.
• Job losses and permanent closures of businesses are concerns.

Key Impacts on Tourism Sector:

• Loss of international visitors due to COVID-19.
• Temporary closures of hospitality and accommodation.
• Efforts to support local businesses through redeployment and assistance programs.
• Domestic tourism is expected to be a focus moving forward.

Future Developments and Events

• Field Days transitioning to an online format.
• Other events postponed until next year.
• Major events still planned, but dependent on travel restrictions.

Response Plan Overview

• Three-phase response plan: mitigate, restart, reimagine.
• Community support initiatives being developed.
• Focus on domestic tourism and local markets.

Presentation by Mark Morgan (Hamilton Airport)

• Discussed COVID-19 impact on airport operations.
• Significant reduction in aeronautical income.
• Exploring options for recovery and cost reductions.

LGFA Update by Andrew

• LGFA has 67 member councils.
• Current environment shows a need for councils to access finance.
• Interest rates are low, providing a good borrowing opportunity.

Financial Report by Nada

• Income at 74% of forecast; operating expenditure at 72% of forecast.
• Vested assets recognized to date at 94% of forecast.
• Development contributions received at 47% of forecast.

Health and Safety Report by Steph and Bev

• Reported on health and safety initiatives and challenges related to COVID-19.
• Continuous monitoring of staff well-being and implementation of safety protocols.

Key Questions and Discussions:

• Addressing accident reports at entranceways and safety measures in place.
• How to support staff mental health during COVID-19.
• Importance of leadership commitment to health and safety initiatives.

Recommendations

• Motion to accept the health and safety report moved by Claire and seconded by Elwyn.
• Motion carried (All in favour: Aye).

Closing Remarks

• Motion to move into public excluded session moved by Roger and seconded by Susan.
• Motion carried (All in favour: Aye).

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Note: This is a summary of key points and discussions from the meeting. Ensure to review the full minutes for thorough details.