Council Submits Water Services Delivery Plan

Waimate District Council has submitted its Water Services Delivery Plan to the Department of Internal Affairs (DIA), in line with the Local Water Done Well legislation.

Adopted at an Ordinary Council meeting on 19 August, the plan sets out a clear and sustainable roadmap for delivering and funding the district’s water services over the next decade.

Council commends the dedicated staff who have worked tirelessly to develop this comprehensive plan, their expert analysis and commitment to community wellbeing have been instrumental in shaping this plan that reflects local needs while meeting rigorous national drinking water, wastewater and stormwater standards.

Council also recognises the strong public support for retaining local control of water services - a mandate that has guided the development of this plan.

Mayor Craig Rowley says, “We promised our community safe and affordable water services, and this plan delivers on that promise. It meets all legislative and financial requirements set by the Government and proves that Council has the capability to manage our water services effectively and affordably.”

Under the plan, if approved by the DIA, water services including drinking water, wastewater, and stormwater will continue to be delivered through an internal business unit (IBU). The unit will work closely with a newly established Water Services Committee to make recommendations to Council. The committee will have some delegated authority, but Council will retain full decision-making authority.

Mayor Rowley adds, “While we’re confident in our ability to go at it alone, we will continue to collaborate with our neighbours to identify possible opportunities to optimise our essential services.

Chief Executive Stuart Duncan says, “I have full confidence in the plan we’ve submitted. I want to thank everyone who contributed to this milestone, and our community for their ongoing support. We now await approval from the Department of Internal Affairs.”

You can read the Water Services Delivery Plan here.