Hello everyone,
In November this council joined industry leaders, innovators and a futurist at an economic summit.
Our aim was to bring these pivotal people and the council together to help us shape an economic strategy for the Waikato district.
We talked about how we generate economic growth, where we are going and what we can each contribute to the journey. We discussed the big picture, the small details and made some important connections.
It didn’t surprise any of us the recurrent message of the day was that we must be more enabling. We need to address development with a pragmatic, individual approach. Our customers and their needs vary greatly and we are on a growth threshold that requires some forward thinking and a can-do attitude. And, while we need to abide by the rules of local government, we can listen and we can respond.
The importance of collaboration was another highlight. Our industries need to consider synergies as they develop in terms of location, transport, technology, education, people and complimentary industries to ensure industry growth and support our population. It all contributes to how we leverage from each other to develop and future-proof this district. We are living in exciting times and what we do now has huge implications for shaping our future.
This is the start of a conversation we all need to contribute to. And it’s an ongoing story which I look forward to progressing in my term as mayor.Keep safe, stay well and have a wonderful Christmas and a happy New Year.
Allan Sanson
Mayor Waikato District