Submission details
| Submission ID | 9973 |
|---|---|
| Name | Gayle Bell |
| Date | 6 April 2026 |
| 1. Do you have any feedback on the IAWAI Water Services Strategy? |
I have tried to read through the proposed strategy, and while it contains a lot of information, it lacks detailed, written plans on how the interests of the ratepayers—who will ultimately fund this—are being prioritised. What specific strategy is in place for if the debt repayment plans default? The Hamilton City Council already carries a significant financial burden that is causing great concern among ratepayers. Finding out that IAWAI can borrow twice as much as the Hamilton City Council is deeply worrying. What mechanisms are in place to ensure this debt is strictly held in check? I am also concerned that future local government elections may result in a Mayor and Deputy Mayor who lack the necessary skills to navigate the complexities of this new structure in the best interest of the ratepayers. I oppose the proposed water entity and believe it would be more cost-effective if managed directly by the Council, with Councillors retaining full voting rights. I am concerned that the current corporate structure prioritises private interests at the expense of ratepayers, who will ultimately bear the financial burden.
I am deeply concerned regarding the closing date of this feedback, as it appears insufficient consideration has been given to ratepayers who wish to prioritise time with their families during the holiday period rather than drafting feedback. Such a lack of regard is regrettable for a new entity seeking to establish a positive reputation with the public. I trust you will consider granting an extension to this feedback process? |
| 2a. Do you support a growth pays for growth approach for new residential and commercial developments, including the use of growth charges to help fund growth-related infrastructure and services? |
Partially support
|
| 2b. In the current residential growth charges proposal secondary minor dwellings (i.e. granny flats) may be treated as ½ HUE. Do you support treating secondary minor dwellings as ½ HUE? If you have an alternative proposal, please explain. |
No
|
| Please explain. |
Installation and Administration costs will far out weigh the charge out rate. Besides people living in granny flats are most likely to be cash strapped.
|
| 3. How would you prefer IAWAI engage you? |
In person consultation eg Libraries
|
| 4. Do you support IAWAI’s Significance and Engagement Policy? |
No
|
| 6. Do you support IAWAI'S Waiver Policy? |
No
|
| Are you giving feedback on behalf of an organisation? |
No, these are my own personal views
|