There was now better alignment between the regional council’s priorities and the needs of the community, Mosgiel-Taieri Community Board chairman Andrew Simms said.
"I think a disconnect had developed", Mr Simms said.
Progress had been made in recent months, he said.
His chairman’s report for this week’s community board agenda referred to the possibility of the council setting up a community advisory panel to assist with decision-making about flood protection and drainage of the Taieri.
The community board could be involved, it has been signalled.
The council recognised it needed to restore the Silver Stream’s channel capacity, he said.
Mr Simms was also pleased about a recent result in the Environment Court about an area known as the Gordon Rd spillway.
The regional council had appealed against part of the Dunedin City Council’s district plan relating to flooding zoning.
Mr Simms said credit was due to both councils for shifting from their positions.
He included substantial commentary about the appeal resolution in his chairman’s report.
Mr Simms said a great deal of equity could have been lost by affected residents if the regional council had succeeded with its original appeal.
He paid tribute to the Gordon Rd Spillway Residents Group.
It had been an expensive and distressing process for the community, but positives had come out of it, he said.
Residents had a much more defined pathway if they wanted to expand or rebuild their dwellings, he said.
Mr Simms cautioned insurance companies and banks would always hold the key to continued occupation of flood-hazard areas.
"I urge all residents to do all that they can to lessen their own risk and be ever vigilant in the future by advocating for the maintenance and improvements of the flood protection assets guarding our homes and properties."
