A much-awaited opportunity to provide public feedback on the controversial Three Waters reform is now available.
The Government is accepting submissions on the Water Services Entities Bill, which is the next stage in the reform programme.
In October last year, Government decided they would mandate the reform across the country, meaning local councils must transfer their wastewater, storm water and drinking water assets to one of four new entities.
The entities will be collectively owned by councils on behalf of communities, meaning the assets will remain in public ownership, however the degree of ownership and accountability has been debated by many in the community.
Nelson City Council will be making a submission to government and as part of this, are putting out a survey to gather the views of the community.
A council spokesperson says the government’s deadline on submissions is “very tight” so surveys must be completed by July 4.
Council’s submission will be considered at a full council meeting in July before submissions close on July 22.
Nelsonians can also make independent submissions directly to the Government through the Select Committee process by visiting Parliament’s website.
Deputy Mayor Judene Edgar says council staff and elected members will start a conversation with the community about how council should respond to the Three Waters Bill.
“Council has engaged fully with the Three Waters reform process so far as we think that is the best way for us to advocate for Nelson. We have already seen feedback from councils incorporated into the reform, and this is another opportunity for us to ensure this change works for our community.
“The question is not whether the reform is needed, but what shape it should take.”
Acting chief executive Alec Louverdis encouraged Nelsonians to take part in the engagement.
“There are many in the community that feel passionately about Three Waters, and I would encourage them to engage fully with the process.
A series of public meetings have been arranged where Nelsonians will be able to talk to councillors and officers about the proposed reforms and council’s submission.
The details of the meetings are:
Wednesday 29 June 2022 – 2pm – 5pm: in person in the Council Chamber
Thursday 30 June 2022 – 2pm – 5 pm: in person in the Council Chamber
Thursday 30 June 2022 – 6 pm – 8 pm: on Zoom
Visit shape.nelson.govt.nz to have your say.
