A meeting between Glenorchy residents and Queenstown Lakes District council over a proposed sewerage scheme for the town has not resulted in a resolution.
Plans for the costly project prompted opponents to form an incorporated society to fight it, called Sustainable Glenorchy.
It was hoped the meeting, held yesterday morning, between council officials and the local community group would address issues.
Head of the group John Glover, the Glenorchy businessman who owns Kinloch Lodge, said the council was ignoring the interests of local residents and breaching statutory obligations.
Mr Glover told the Otago Daily Times the aim of the meeting was to understand the financial implications for residents He fears the scheme's budget might blow out and "bankrupt the town''.
Council chief engineer Ulrich Glasner attended the meeting, along with councillor Craig Ferguson.
Mr Glover, who stood unsuccessfully for the council three years ago, said while the meeting showed a willingness to engage, he does not believe the council is considering all options.
"They [council staff] would have seen it [the meeting] as an opportunity to present why they are doing what they are doing. I wouldn't say it was a listening meeting. There was quite a lot of rolling our eyes and shaking our heads to some of the options that were discussed. I am not sure we are any further forward as a result of the meeting.''
He also questioned the council's decision to have an open tender for the scheme, saying it did not provide the best value for money.
"It is effectively proposing to ask the market what they want to deliver. That is quite different to getting what you actually want.
"We are concerned that the budget will blow out and we pay for something that is not fit for purpose, is overpriced and doesn't actually deliver what the town wants.''
Council documentation estimates a connection to the reticulated wastewater scheme for a single residential dwelling would be $15,750 plus GST.
Mr Glover thinks that is conservative and worries residents will have to foot the bill if costs increase.
In an emailed statement, Mr Glasner disagreed and confirmed a report would be presented at this month's full council meeting when councillors would decide the "procurement option''.
Cr Ferguson said he was taking all information from the community group on board.
"It was an extremely positive meeting. I was there as their representative and said to them I am there to support both sides of the camp. I have to look at everything with an open mind. That is my duty.''
