Residents Satisfaction Survey

Residents and ratepayers have given the Marlborough District Council a pretty big pat on the back.
Complaints and criticisms can tend to distort the real picture, so we use a professional research company to be sure we get accurate data about the level of satisfaction with Council’s services and performance.

Research First’s survey of 601 Marlborough people has given the Council 7 out of 10 – even better than last year.

The researchers review other councils and have assured us this puts Marlborough District Council in the top of the range and significantly better than others.

The researchers collect data in a way that ensures they’re getting substantial feedback from residents who have lived here long enough to know Marlborough well – not just new arrivals who won’t necessarily have a full picture.

One of your four top priorities to come through this year was water supply. Upgrading the water supply is how Council has spent a large portion of rates in the last couple of years and it has a region-wide commitment to protect water quality. So it’s good to know we’re in tune with what people want.

Emergency management, the sewerage system and community safety are also your priorities.

Events in Christchurch have underlined to everyone the importance of emergency management systems and we believe we’ve got the right arrangements in place. The recent flooding tested our sewerage system in Blenheim so we know we have planning to do for a long-term upgrade.

Community safety concerns are a sign of the times but everyone will be pleased to know there will be a new CCTV system in both Blenheim and Picton CBDs soon. Let’s hope it’s a disincentive to crime.

Can I thank everyone who took the time to answer the researchers’ questions.

The results give us valuable feedback about the services the community sees as important. It not only identifies the assets and services that the community values most, but also helps to show Council where the public believes more resources or funding could be directed. It all helps to ensure councillors are making informed decisions about the way your money is spent.

Alistair Sowman
Mayor