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Webster Calls for Government Funding
MEDIA RELEASE
Orewa, 31st January 2008
Webster
Calls for Government Funding of Wastewater Systems
“It’s time for central government to recognise the need for šcentral government funding for new wastewater plants in rural townships,” says the mayor of Rodney District Penny Webster.
Mrs Webster was responding to the release The Environment New Zealand 2007 report which found reduced water quality in many rural areas.
She says much of the problem is caused by sub-standard or non-existent wastewater systems in small towns and villages, and that’s something that will need Government intervention to address.
“Water quality is an issue for councils. But in districts such as Rodney the balance of upgrading systems or putting in new systems has to be weighed against the impact on rates.
“Government subsidies exist for infrastructure such as roading, I think it’s time to look at subsidies for water and wastewater treatment plants,” Mrs Webster said in a press statement issued today.
She says that in Rodney many rural township properties were on septic tanks, but with urban intensification, systems were needed to deal with the pressures now being put on the environment.
“But that can’t happen from local rates. The Government needs to recognise that, and to assist our ratepayers and communities.”
ENDS.
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