The Timaru District and Mackenzie District Councils formally committed to collaborate on the joint delivery of water services at a signing ceremony in Cave last week.
The formal agreement resulted in the two councils agreeing to establish a joint operating model and new water organisation.
Timaru District Mayor Nigel Bowen said the commitment put both councils on the path of having sustainable, affordable and high-quality water services for residents and businesses throughout the two districts.
“By working together, Timaru District Council and Mackenzie District Council are demonstrating a shared commitment to resilient, reliable water services — now and for future generations.
“This agreement reflects a practical, collaborative approach that respects what we have in common and our differences and keeps both our communities’ interests at the centre of every decision.”
Officers from the two councils had been working closely to establish the project plan, which foresaw the councils incorporating and establishing the new organisation by October 31, and services being delivered by it from July 1 next year.
A joint shareholders committee, with six voting members, the mayors and two councillors from each council, with the provision for alternates, will provide joint oversight on behalf of the councils, supported by an establishment working group and a project team to deliver the programme of work leading up to the new organisation’s “day 1” operations.
Mackenzie District deputy mayor Rit Fisher said he concurred with Mr Bowen’s comments.
“I want to reiterate that both Timaru District Council and the Mackenzie District Council districts are intertwined and the new service delivery model will reflect our values going forward.
“This is the first tangible moment where the two district’s water services are being merged into a significant business for our collective districts.
“The new entity will have almost half a billion dollars in assets and a significant impact on our communities’ prosperity for decades to come.”
The joint water organisation will focus on drinking water supply and wastewater services.
Stormwater services are intended to remain with each council at present. — Allied Media
