The loss of Target in Wellington, whilst regrettable, was not totally unexpected. For those who read the financial papers, Target Australia, like many large retailers is feeling the pressure of reducing margins and the effect of online shopping. That’s why it is so important for people to realise this is not a poor reflection on Wellington but rather a global shift in the way retailing will operate into the future.
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That being said, your Council has taken a very proactive stance on the issue. We have been in discussions with Target to ensure everything is being done to find alternative employment for the displaced workforce. I have personally spoken with the building’s owner and offered Council’s support in bringing a new business to town. The Wellington Business Chamber is exploring the possibility of creating a community-owned store and our real estate agents are actively working to find a new tenant for the building.
So, the options are to spend a lot of time and energy beating our chests over the loss of Target or we can, as a community, pull together and work on a solution. I’m sure you will agree with me that the latter is by far the best way for us to go.
At the October Ordinary meeting, Council resolved to begin the process of selling some of its building assets. Five buildings have been short-listed. The reason for this action is very simple. Whilst we derive rental income from some of these assets, it is not sufficient to pay all the outgoings or to cover the cost of ongoing maintenance and repairs. In essence, the buildings are a liability and have a very negative impact on Council’s long-term financial position – a position we must turn around if we want our Council to survive.
One of the buildings listed for sale currently houses the Oxley Museum and I know the decision has upset some. From the outset I’ll say Council greatly admires the work carried out by the Wellington Historical Society and the collection they care for. There has never been a suggestion that Council wants the museum to close – quite the contrary. Council has been encouraging the Historical Society to develop a strategic plan for the museum with the view to creating a whole new tourist venture for Wellington. This town and our patch is steeped in history – a history that needs to be showcased and shared with as many people as we can and yes, in my opinion, that needs to happen in a building that is far more accessible and practical for that purpose.
In speaking with people I’m often reminded of ‘missed opportunities’ that if taken up could have totally changed Wellington’s fortunes. I see the creation of a unique and exciting museum, a new tourism venture for Wellington, as being one of those opportunities. It would indeed be very sad to see that opportunity squandered.
