Mayor Jacqui Church recently discussed the Three Waters reform on Aaron's morning show. With the new government ditching Labour’s plans, responsibility and costs of maintaining water services have shifted back to local councils.
She explained that WDC has been proactive in water management for nearly a decade. This long-term approach has given them a thorough understanding of their water assets and infrastructure. However, despite their efforts, she says the financial burden is huge.
Out of the district’s approximately 90,000 residents, only about 14,000 ratepayers contribute to water services, with many rural areas managing their own needs.
The central government has suggested that smaller councils could collaborate, but it’s unclear if larger councils like Hamilton City, which might view smaller councils as liabilities, are open to this.
“Hamilton has more ratepayers, all contributing to water services. However, they face different issues around their debt ceiling, which we don’t have. They aren’t metered for water, whereas we are. Partnering is complex, like a relationship where you work through strengths and weaknesses for a better outcome,” said Mayor Church.
She noted that merging several councils could reduce compliance costs and benefit the industry, but choosing the right partners is crucial. Mayor Church also mentioned the goal of removing water assets from balance sheets to raise debt but warned this approach extends the repayment period, increasing overall costs. For Waikato, a key issue is the termination of a crucial contract with Watercare.
“ We had a really good, robust contract with Watercare, but then they decided to divorce us.”
Mayor Church is keen to continue the contract due to its alignment and efficiency and criticised the government’s mixed messages about collaboration while undermining existing successful partnerships.
Mayor Church explained that Watercare is a council-controlled organisation of Auckland City Council and prioritises its own needs. She urged the government to consider a broader strategic view that benefits all of New Zealand and suggested that extending the Watercare contract could provide a temporary solution while longer-term arrangements are developed.
Mayor Church also noted that Watercare's facilities in North Waikato, including potable water and wastewater treatment plants are located within the Waikato Council District boundaries and emphasised the significance of aligning with Waikato-Tainui’s aspirations, as their rohe extends into Auckland - highlighting the need for collaboration across territorial boundaries.
When asked about the potential for council’s to resist the government mandates, Mayor Church stressed the importance of advising and supporting the government with practical, locally informed decisions rather than outright defiance, while also pointing out that legally, they don’t have much choice.
1000 New Sections and No Clear Development Plan for Raglan.
Raglan is expanding rapidly, with private development plans underway to add approximately 1,000 new sections which could increase the population by 2,500, nearly doubling its current size of 3,000-4,000 residents. Despite this significant growth, there is no holistic development plan in place.
Community watchdog John Lawson highlighted concerns about the Future Proof initiative's focus on more densely populated areas, neglecting Raglan’s needs with no corridor study for SH23. Some residents are calling for the next Long-Term Plan (LTP) to allocate funds for comprehensive planning in Raglan to address the town’s rapid growth and future needs.
Staff turnover aggravates Waikato Council’s erosion solutions
The Papahua Walk Bridge erosion problem, identified over a decade ago, showcases ongoing staffing issues at Waikato District Council. Frequent staff turnover has hindered an effective fix, leading to inefficiencies and wasted ratepayer money. Mayor Church acknowledges these challenges and is focusing on better project management and staff continuity. A district-wide resilience group is being formed to tackle climate change and erosion.
“You’re important to us, and I’ve read the article about the groynes, bridge and erosion issues. I’ve noted this in my file to discuss with staff, as these problems have been ongoing for years with both the Regional and District Councils involved.”
Need for Better Sports Facilities
There is a growing demand for recreational facilities in Raglan, driven by increased youth sports participation. The local junior soccer club has grown from 200 to 290 children over five years. The council is considering land like Wainui Reserve locally, and district-wide smart investments, such as installing new lights on playing fields in Ngāruawāhia, to increase usability.
A shift towards soccer and rugby league over traditional rugby union also shows that a reassessment of field use and capacity might be needed. The council is reviewing its 1,800 land assets to identify essential properties, potential sales and new areas needed to meet these future demands.