The City Talkback section of the website is where Council staff respond to questions raised on Cue Television's City Talkback show. Replies from senior Council staff will be published here as they become available.

Awarua
Mary asked if the Council paid way, way above Government Valuation for purchases of land at Awarua.
     Finance and corporate Services Director Dean Johnston said Council had all of the land independently valued before purchase and that formed the basis of the purchase price.  "The current valuation of the land is well above the purchase price paid," he said.

Rail crossings
Dave complained that the railway crossings at Victoria Ave and Lower Spey Street were terrible.
     Roading manager Tom Greenwood replied: "Discussions will be held with OnTrack about these crossings (the Spey St crossing is programmed to be fitted with barriers arms in May next year).

Intersection visibility (1)
Trish said there were visibility issues at the Regent Street intersection when trying to pull out on to Tweed Street (at the service station).  "There are rows of cars parked and you cannot see to get around the corner at all."
      Mr Greenwood said the yellow no stopping lines would be extended to improve visibility.

Intersection visibility (2)
Hugh said there were visibility issues at the Fraser Street intersection and at Forth Street (by Big Save).  The parked cars made it difficult to see without pulling out into the middle of the road.
     Mr Greenwood said the yellow no stopping lines had yet to be reinstated at this intersection. The work had been programmed with the marking contractor.

The Kingston Flyer
Richard asked if the Council was considering buying the Kingston Flyer.
     Finance and corporate Services Director Dean Johnston said the Council was not looking at purchasing the Kingston Flyer.

Hospital parking
Eddie wanted the Council to approach the Southland District Health Board about the lack of parking at the hospital. Cr Geoff Piercy said he would get the Council to write a letter and express the concerns of ratepayers.
     Chief Executive Officer Richard King has written to the hospital’s Chief Operating Officer, Lexie O’Shea, drawing to her attention public concern about parking at the hospital and respectfully suggesting that it be rectified in the public interest – Communications Manager Eirwen Tulett.