NEWS RELEASE from Hutt City Council

16 October 2002

JOINT MANAGEMENT OF WATER SERVICES CONSULTATION

Hutt City Mayor John Terris has urged residents to have their say during public consultation on Hutt City and Wellington's proposal to jointly manage their water services.

The public consultation period began on 16 October and will include public meetings, the opportunity for people to make written submissions and people who wish to can make oral submissions.

Residents should look out for a brochure that will be delivered to all homes in both cities beginning on Monday 19 October. Anyone who does not receive a brochure can pick one up from any of the Council service centres or the Main Council Building on Laings Rd.

"The proposal to jointly manage water services is very different from the proposal that was put to the public last year," said Mayor Terris.

"This proposal takes account of reservations over the transfer of assets and perceived loss of control over water services. It also ensures that each Council will continue to set water services policies for residents within their respective boundaries.

"I must say however, that I am disappointed at alarmist and totally inaccurate claims currently circulating that this proposal will lead to the privatisation of water services.

"I want to assure all residents that privatisation is not part of the proposal. My Council has specifically rejected privatisation. No-one supports it and the Local Government Bill currently before Parliament makes it clear that water services assets should remain under public ownership.

Public meetings will be held in Hutt City on 29-30 October. There will be one meeting during the day and two during the evening. Council officers and councillors will attend.

ENDS

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