The Central Otago District Council (CODC) has agreed to enter into a commitment agreement with other Otago-Southland councils, as a joint approach regarding the delivery of water services.
The district councils involved are Central Otago, Clutha, Gore and Waitaki, in an option for consideration alongside other water delivery models.
In his report to the CODC meeting yesterday , council chief executive Peter Kelly said councils in Otago and Southland had a history of working together on water service challenges.
As a result, the Otago-Southland Mayoral Forum directed chief executives to establish the Otago-Southland Local Water Done Well working group to explore a range of regional delivery models.
A project team has been formed to define what a joint council controlled organisation (CCO) would look like and how it compares against other practicable options.
Project costs to develop, consult and submit a water services delivery plan for a CCO are estimated to be $540,000, and would be equally apportioned between the four councils.
A view of the water organisation delivery model options with supporting pros and cons is planned to be presented to the council meetings next month for decision on a preferred delivery services model and options to consult on.
The councils will consult over the late April-May period deciding between retaining the status quo, establishing a single council CCO, or joining with the other councils to establish a regional CCO.
Key dates include hearing from consultation in June followed by deciding on the water services delivery plan.
Submissions have to be with central government by September 3. Three South Canterbury councils — Waimate, Mackenzie and Timaru — may also become part of the group. — APL
