At this week’s Council meeting, the Government’s three waters reform was discussed at length and feedback was collated from councillors around the table. As per the requirements of this reform timeline, all councils were asked to provide their feedback on this reform by 30 September 2021.
Alongside this message, you will see the letter sent to the Department of Internal Affairs (also available on Council’s website) stating Council’s position and clearly conveying our feedback. As part of this process, we have listened to our ratepayers and through the public meeting in August, you made it clear to us that any loss of local control is unwelcome and the overall feeling around the proposal was for Council to oppose the reform.
While we are not yet being asked to opt-in or opt-out, we are confident this feedback reflects that of the community and the Waimate District. As we’ve said from day one, there are too many questions left unanswered and the Government has failed to convince us there is a compelling case for change. However, if a decision was to be made today, Council have signalled that we would opt-out based on all information before us.
While there is no requirement for any public consultation at this stage, Council acknowledge there has been a number of discussion posts appearing on Facebook in recent days, and have received many direct emails, and we can assure you that we will continue to bring you information as it comes to hand.
In the meantime, Local Government Minister Nanaia Mahuta will now take the sector’s feedback to Cabinet, with a further announcement expected in late October.
MAYOR CRAIG ROWLEY
