Posted
31st August 2001
United Water-down
by Peter Mathyssen
SAt last Monday's council meeting, Papakura Mayor David Buist
successfully managed to have Council revoke an earlier Council
decision to grant $500 to Papakura Water Pressure Group. It
seems he had been 'persuaded' by managing director of United
Water, Mike Smith.
The
Mayor said: "After a brief discussion with Mike Smith from United
Water, I am even more concerned at the possible ramifications
under the Franchise Agreement that approving the resolution
(for $500 grant) will have. As Mayor of Papakura it is my responsibility
to protect the interests of Council and the people of Papakura.
I therefore believe that the above resolution should be revoked".
After being asked by councillors what possible ramifications
there could be, Mr Buist ducked and dived and was not able to
quantify these. Mr Buist is keen to address United Water's concerns
when it flexes its muscles, but ignores the concerns of a large
majority of Papakura residents who have been opposed to the
franchise since its implementation. He is mistaken by saying
that PWPG is a political group. PWPG has no ties or links to
any political organisation or group. Who is Mr Buist representing,
United Water or the people of Papakura who elected him? Why
has he done a 180 degree turn on his mayoral election promises,
promises to be open and honest?. He cannot be trusted.
Make
sure your opinion about this debacle is heard! Write a letter
to the local paper, ring talkback radio, talk to community groups
you belong to, etc. This sham must be exposed. * Peter
Mathyssen.
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