Malcolm Whitaker

However, only if existing and future ratepayers benefit by having their rates lower than they are now or the future predications.

There is a lot of duplicity out there now, which could be removed. We also need, more financially efficient councils, delivering on essential services.

In the Eastern Bay, the proposal is to unite Whakatāne, Ōpōtiki and Kawerau councils into a unitary council. However, who will manage each council’s debt?

I suggest the three councils unite and bring in Te Puke with its predicted population of 10,400.

It’s an hour’s drive from Whakatāne, comprising the iwi of Waitata, Ngāti Rangiwewehi, Tapuika and Ngāti Tuheke, which would all align with our Eastern Bay iwi.

Te Puke also has the Kaituna River flowing through its territory.

We have four river and drainage schemes in the east.

This would make a suitable fit when Bay of Plenty Regional Council is dissolved.

We could base these four schemes in Whakatāne or Edgecumbe along with Landcare personnel who could continue riparian plantings and wetland restoration of indigenous flora, and the harbour master.

We also may need to consider land use consents depending on the Government’s new environmental bill.

If the Government can be persuaded to leave Quayside Holdings intact, thus continuing to subsidise regional rates by 40 percent and also 20 percent capital funding for the river and drainage schemes. Either way, central government will bring its proposals in, despite this process not being democratic.

I particularly want to see lower rates forecast in our district.

Looking ahead at the Three Waters proposal with an average rise of 8.4 percent over the next eight years.

Yes – an increase of 67.2 percent by 2034.

That may not even include GST. With Whakatāne’s meter reading already jumping from $51 to $75 twice every year. Will amalgamation deliver a fairer service to ratepayers? Time will tell.