Council has a range of strategic projects which will be undertaken during the next 10 years.
The Opotiki Harbour Development
The development of the Opotiki Harbour has been proposed for some time and an Eastern Seafarms proposal for the development of a marine farm off shore of Opotiki has highlighted the economic potential this resource has for the Eastern Bay of Plenty.
Significant progress has been made since the 2006 Ten Year plan was adopted. The resource consents for the harbour groynes have been lodged and a hearing is likely before this Ten year plan is adopted. The marine farm is now fully consented and steps to commercialise the space are currently underway. The community has indicated that this is a high priority outcome for the district and the Eastern Bay of Plenty.
Library Upgrade
A major upgrade of the library is currently planned in 2009/10. This follows an independent review of district library services in 2008 and consultation on the reveiw's findings.
Sports & Events Centre
Previous plans have identified a sport and events centre at Memorial Park. Following an independent review in 2008 it is now proposed to locate the centre at the Opotiki College in conjunction with the existing gymnasium and swimming pool. However, due to other funding commitments the projects implementation has been delayed to 2014/15.
Memorial Park Pavilion
As a result of the sports and events centre no longer being planned for Memorial Park, a pavilion is now planned at this location. This would service tennis and netball, among others. A new playground is also planned for Memorial Park in 2012/13.
Coast Initiatives
It has been identified through the Coast Community Board that more facilities are needed on the Coast, particularly with regard to sport and Council reserves. An annual fund has been established for this purpose.
Opotiki Sewerage Upgrade
There are some parts of the Opotiki sewerage reticulation that need upgrading to overcome stormwater infiltration. It is planned to implement this upgrade over 5 years from 2009/10.
Walkways
While a major town to beach walkway is no longer planned before 2019, upgrades to existing popular walkways in urgan and rural areas are planned from 2010.
Seal Extension Programme
It is proposed that the seal extension programme be continued. The extent of work completed annually will be dependent on the level of NZ Transport Agency funding, development contributions (roading) that are received and on the depreciation funds available to Counci.