Word from the Mayor
Three waters reform continues
We now understand the government position to mandate the 3 waters, we also now have a much clearer picture of “why” it is so important to continue to hear from you.
Our council took the view that informally we need to hear from our constituents during the 8 week period of July through September, but at Hurunui District Council we also had an active resolution on the table to formally consult therefore at last week’s extraordinary meeting we resolved to prepare and plan for this process. We are coming to you to allow your voice.
Earlier this year as a council we drafted a strategy that cements water resilience as a key objective, stating that “enduring water supplies sustain our people, our prosperity, and our environment” securing future water security and water quality is one of the pillars that aligns with the council’s opposition to the reform process.
We continue to hold onto the belief that the establishment of Taumata Arowai is the first step in this process, give time for the regulations to become embedded and then progress with the next steps. Be brave take time and pause – take the community on the journey with you let us understand the regulations and the associated costs, we have a chance here to work with critical partners and drive for a successful outcome. You all have a voice and now is the time you need to participate in local democracy, mobilize the voice of the people by making representation through the select committee process.
I just want to finish today with “The purpose of local government” which is to (a) enable democratic local decision-making and action by, and on behalf of, communities and (b) to promote the social, economic, environmental, and cultural well-being of communities in the present and for the future.
Kia kaha and thank you