Three Waters objection
I would like to record my objections to Three Waters being transferred to another authority. I believe the management of water should remain within WBoP District Council jurisdiction.
In terms of Section 130 of the Local Government Act, Council is required to consult with ratepayers on the disposal of strategic assets.
Considering the lack of consultation regarding the proposed Three Waters legislation, I object to the transfer of the $323m of Western Bay of Plenty Three Waters assets being transferred to this proposed new water entity. Those assets have been paid
for by the ratepayers of the WBoP and I do not support them being given away. It would amount to a gifting of $248m by the ratepayers - an amount this community cannot afford.
The water quality within the Western Bay District is acceptable and we have paid dearly to build these assets. I believe these assets are best retained and managed within the district and expect the Mayor and Councillors to vote accordingly.
Christina Humphreys, Katikati
The Editor responds: I do not think the government has done itself any favours with a pre-emptive charm offensive TV advertising campaign which up until this point has been very light on detail. It is human nature to be suspicious of unexpected change and people have a general bias toward safety and certainty compared to uncertainty and potential for loss.
Humans have a natural tendency to gamble that risk events will not occur, rather than invest in controls to reduce the risks. As an example, it’s understandable that people think we should keep what we have - without considering that an earthquake, tsunami, flood or major supply contamination event could leave our local authority unable to afford future infrastructure.
It’s a question of how the reader regards the probability of major events such as natural disasters, versus the status quo of previous experiences. Some studies suggest losses are twice as powerful to humans psychologically, as gains. But hold on a minute.
We are awaiting public consultation based on having more facts in front of us. The Council’s explanation of the current situation may be found on page 3. Matthew.