Manawatu District briefs

Boundary appeals next month

APPEAL hearings relating to the decision on the proposed boundary change between Manawatu District and Palmerston North are to be held early next month. Local Government Commission’s three-member panel of Basil Morrison (chair), Anne Carter and Grant Kirby will hear the appeals in the Manawatu District Council’s chamber on Thursday, March 1, and Friday, March 2. Forty-eight individuals and organisations have indicated they want to be heard.


Kopane Bridge’s official opening

THE new $4 million Kopane Bridge over the Oroua River, aimed at alleviating flood problems in the area, is to be officially opened by Rangitikei MP, Ian McKelvie, at 10am on Saturday, February 4. Prior to the plaque unveiling, a bridge building competition between Kopane School students and Horizons Regional Council engineers is to be held. Acting Manawatu District Mayor Matt Bell will be among the dignitaries at the celebrations.


LGNZ appoints Chief Executive

LOCAL Government New Zealand has appointed Malcolm Alexander as its new Chief Executive. He joins LGNZ from Genesis Energy where he held the position of general manager Corporate Affairs. LGNZ President Lawrence Yule said Mr Alexander was experienced in cabinet, parliamentary and departmental processes and had built strong relationships at the local government level. He starts his new duties in April.