Mayor Anne Munro welcomes the announcement on Wednesday 15 February by the PM Chris Hipkins, that Labour intend to refocus the Three Waters reforms. It is critical that Three Waters remain strongly linked to its customers and communities.
Mayor Anne has stated, “She is of the firm view that the issues that constrain the delivery of Three Waters is sustainable funding. We all recognise there is a need for improvement in Three Waters infrastructure to deliver safe drinking water to our communities and minimise discharges into our environment. We support the establishment of Taumata Arowhai.”
“We strongly believe that the model of larger entities is flawed. We have an independent report, that shows the economics supporting the 4 large entities is flawed.”
“Districts with smaller communities spread over vast geographical areas will lose. Smaller districts will lose their voice to influence capital investment decisions and we remain concerned about the affordability of water for our district and the ability of local communities growing in line with local wishes”.
The current water service structure established in the recent legislative reforms has been rushed through at an unprecedented pace, without listening and taking cognisance of the valid concerns raised by local authorities.
The evidence of the benefits of sustainable funding can be seen through the 99% delivery record of the Three Water Infrastructure projects, financed by the DIA Tranche 1 grants, provided nationally to local authorities. This delivery achievement is outstanding for any capital programme in NZ and underscores the real issue. This funding delivered true benefits to 3 Waters across all of New Zealand for the same price as the new IT service to serve the new entities will cost.
“The provision of quality outcomes in three waters are best served by engaging local voices underpinned by sustainable funding which will deliver better health and environmental outcomes”. This is founded on a good regulatory foundation already established by the Government.
Mackenzie is more than happy to work with the government to scope this refocus to the core issues. Working in genuine partnership with mana whenua, Central Government and neighbouring councils would deliver the outcomes sought by all.