Dunedin

1. Structure of the Dunedin City Council (DCC)

The Dunedin City Council is made up of:

• The Mayor: Elected by the residents of Dunedin to lead the council and represent the city.
• 14 Councillors: Elected at large (city-wide) to represent the interests of the community and make decisions on behalf of residents.
• Community Boards: There are six community boards in the Dunedin area, representing specific localities (e.g., Otago Peninsula, Mosgiel-Taieri). These boards provide input on local issues and advocate for their communities.
• Council Staff: The council employs a Chief Executive and staff who manage the day-to-day operations and implement council decisions.

The council operates through committees and subcommittees that focus on specific areas such as infrastructure, planning, finance, and community services.

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2. Main Responsibilities of the Dunedin City Council

The DCC is responsible for a wide range of services and functions that impact daily life in Dunedin. These include:

a. Infrastructure and Utilities

• Water Supply and Wastewater: Managing the city’s water supply, stormwater systems, and wastewater treatment.
• Roads and Transport: Maintaining local roads, footpaths, cycleways, and public transport infrastructure.
• Solid Waste Management: Overseeing rubbish collection, recycling, and landfill operations.

b. Urban Planning and Development

• Resource Management: Administering the District Plan, which governs land use, zoning, and development.
• Building Consents: Issuing building permits and ensuring compliance with the Building Act.
• Heritage Protection: Preserving Dunedin’s historic buildings and sites.

c. Community Services

• Libraries: Operating public libraries, including the Dunedin City Library and its branches.
• Parks and Recreation: Managing public parks, reserves, sports facilities, and playgrounds.
• Cultural Facilities: Supporting museums, art galleries, and cultural events (e.g., the Dunedin Public Art Gallery).

d. Environmental Management

• Biodiversity and Conservation: Protecting local wildlife and natural habitats, including the Otago Peninsula.
• Climate Change Initiatives: Implementing strategies to reduce carbon emissions and adapt to climate change.

e. Economic Development

• Supporting local businesses, tourism, and events to promote economic growth in Dunedin.

f. Regulatory Services

• Animal Control: Managing dog registration and animal control services.
• Health and Safety: Enforcing food safety regulations, noise control, and public health standards.

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3. Key Services and Associated Costs

a. Rates

• Rates are the primary source of funding for the DCC. These are property taxes paid by homeowners and businesses, calculated based on the value of the property.
• Rates cover services like water, waste management, and public amenities.
• Residents can find their rates information on the DCC website or by contacting the council directly.

b. Fees and Charges

• Building Consents: Fees apply for building permits and inspections.
• Dog Registration: Annual fees for dog registration vary depending on the type and number of dogs.
• Parking: The council manages parking in the city, with fees for on-street parking and parking facilities.
• Rubbish Collection: Residents pay for rubbish bags or bins, while recycling services are often included in rates.

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4. How Residents Can Engage with the Council

a. Attending Meetings

• Council meetings are open to the public, and residents can attend to observe or present their views during public forums.

b. Submissions and Consultations

• The DCC regularly seeks public input on policies, plans, and projects. Residents can make submissions during consultation periods.

c. Contacting the Council

• Customer Service Centre: Located at the Civic Centre, 50 The Octagon, Dunedin. Open Monday to Friday for in-person inquiries.
• Phone: Residents can call the council at +64 3 477 4000.
• Online Services: The DCC website (www.dunedin.govt.nz) offers a range of online services, including reporting issues, paying rates, and accessing council documents.

d. Community Boards

• Residents can engage with their local community board to raise concerns or suggest improvements for their area.

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5. Important Local Offices and Facilities

a. Civic Centre

• The Civic Centre in The Octagon is the main office for the DCC. It houses council chambers, customer service desks, and administrative offices.

b. Dunedin Public Library

• The central library and its branches provide free access to books, digital resources, and community programs.

c. Moana Pool

• A popular public swimming facility managed by the council.

d. Waste and Recycling Facilities

• The Green Island Landfill and transfer stations are key facilities for waste disposal and recycling.

e. Dunedin Botanic Garden

• A council-managed public garden offering recreational and educational opportunities.

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6. Tips for New Residents and Visitors

• Understanding Rates Notices: If you’re a homeowner, familiarize yourself with your rates bill and what it covers.
• Recycling Rules: Dunedin has specific rules for recycling. Check the DCC website for guidelines on what can and cannot be recycled.
• Public Transport: The Otago Regional Council (separate from the DCC) manages public buses in Dunedin. Visit their website for schedules and fares.
• Emergency Preparedness: The DCC provides resources on preparing for natural disasters, such as earthquakes or floods. Check their Civil Defence page for details.

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7. Additional Resources

• Dunedin City Council Website: www.dunedin.govt.nz
• Otago Regional Council: www.orc.govt.nz (for regional transport and environmental management)
• Community Boards: Contact details for each board are available on the DCC website.

By understanding the structure and functions of the Dunedin City Council, residents and visitors can better navigate the city’s services and actively participate in local governance.