Plans for a new-look library at Franklin: The Centre are taking shape to coincide with Auckland Council staff moving from the Manukau Road building to the facility. The move brings forward a long-planned library refurbishment. Details here.

Clevedon residents will be asked about a targeted rate to connect to a new water system. The board says the rate would allow residents to repay a loan in their rates and wants the idea included in annual budget consultations. Read more.

The board has allocated about $20,000 in quick response funding, including $1232 to Ramarama School's reunion committee to add the names of those who served to the honours roll. A new grant round opens on February 17, closing March 27. More here.

Hundreds of children will get a taste of triathlon on February 21 when they descend on Clarks Beach for the Fulton Primary Schools Triathlon, funded through the board’s event partnership. There are great viewing areas for supporters. More here.

Our last duty before the break was opening the playground at Beachlands’ Kahawairahi Drive Reserve. A big thank you to all who turned out to make that such a great event, and especially to those who shaped how the space now looks. More here.

Bookings are being taken online, over the phone or at a council service centre for inorganic collections. You can also arrange for larger items to be collected from your property. Remember, leaving items at the kerb is a form of illegal dumping. 

SouthSci is now accepting funding applications for science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) related projects. South Auckland schools, community and iwi groups can apply. Everything you need to know is here.

The annual Sculpture in the Gardens exhibition at Auckland Botanic Gardens at Manurewa continues until March 1. If you haven’t seen it yet you are missing something special. There is work by more than 60 artists on show. See more