Cr Lloyd disappointed by water meter decision

Waikanae Ward councillor Tony Lloyd says he is very disappointed at Kāpiti Council’s decision to install water meters.

“The petitions, LTP submissions and Council’s own survey clearly showed a lack of support for the project and they demonstrated the high level of community concern.

“I voted against the proposal because of my deep concerns for the future impact of meters,” says Cr Lloyd.

“The potential is there for ratepayers to be penalized for saving too much water, something Tauranga’s residents can attest to. Their water charges were increased to cover a shortfall in Council’s income as a direct consequence of a higher than budgeted reduction in water usage.”

Cr Lloyd says he has deep concerns at the effects on those who are either on low or fixed incomes.

“Recent increases in power charges will now be joined by a rate increase of around six percent plus water charges. These latter charges could translate into a greater demand on health services, particularly for the elderly who will be very wary about incurring more costs.

“It is also a tragedy that this issue has created deep rifts within our community and I fear that these rifts will never heal,” says Cr Lloyd.