Central Hawke’s Bay communities are being encouraged to have their say on the district’s dirtiest issue – wastewater.
More specifically, how businesses and industry should be charged for disposing trade waste into its wastewater networks going forward.
CHB Council had to ensure its wastewater systems and processes could consistently, effectively and sustainably treat wastewater, both now and into the future.
Having input from community and local businesses allowed them to get a better idea how the bigger picture could look, CHB Mayor Alex Walker said.
“The solutions for our wastewater treatment system do not just lie with residents and ratepayers. Our industries are also core beneficiaries from our infrastructure and it is crucial that their role is clearly defined.
“I am pleased that the Trade Waste bylaw has been reviewed in time to sit alongside such an important Long Term Plan for the district, as I want ratepayers to know that we are looking closely at all parts of the system – not just debt and rates increases.”
Proposed bylaw changes would improve readability, allowing Council to clarify the intent of its Trade Waste bylaw.
Stormwater is another area that has a huge effect on water quality in the region, and would require a switch up from the status quo.
“Discharge of stormwater from private properties and businesses all enters the drainage networks, and ultimately our rivers,” Walker said.
“Council needs the district’s feedback on its proposed 2021 stormwater bylaw, and whether [we] can play an active role in helping manage stormwater discharge from private residences.”
A possible solution was the implementation of household water tanks that could be used for watering gardens, washing cars and ultimately contribute to water preservation in the district.
Other topics being tabled were a proposed policy requiring all new-build homes to have a water tank installed to capture roof water; and whether water meters should be used to monitor network performance.
“More than many parts of New Zealand, Central Hawke’s Bay truly understands how vital water is to the place we live, work and play in,” Walker commented.
“Many, many people around the district have spoken to us about the logic of requiring new urban homes to have tanks – building resilience just like our rural communities do.”
Residents and industry will be able to view the draft replacement bylaws from March 1, and make paper or online submissions from that date onwards.
From March 1, draft replacement bylaws will be available at: www.chbdc.govt.nz or from the Council building – 28/32 Ruataniwha Street, Waipawa.