Southland
Gore District Mayor Tracy Hicks has reiterated the Council’s pledge to support Otama water scheme users take over ownership of the scheme after they voted to end their relationship with the Council.
A referendum to decide the future governance and management of the scheme has resulted in a resounding win for a new entity (option 2), 223 votes to 71.
The 294 votes cast represents a 75% voter turnout. The result is preliminary.
Otama Beach. Photo:TripAdvisor
The options scheme users had to choose from were:
Option 1
The Council will continue governance/ management/ operation and administration of the scheme. The governance of the scheme will be affected via a Council sub-committee, which will be made up of five consumer representatives, the Waikaka Ward Councillor and one other Councillor.
Option 2
A new company will be formed/ with directors appointed by consumers. This company will own, govern and manage the scheme. It will also enter into a contract with another private company to operate and maintain the scheme.
Mr Hicks said the result was a perfect example of democracy at work.
“We will do whatever it takes to ensure the views of the majority are taken into account.”
Transferring ownership to scheme users will require a Local Members’ Bill to be passed by Parliament.
The Council will provide its support wherever and whenever required, Mr Hicks said.