ALL THESE plans to move the bus stops such a short distance is such a waste of time and money. It would be more sensible to relocate it to the car park behind Myer. A circular stop would be easier for the buses and central for commuters with the minor loss of a very expensive car park. It would also provide more short-term street parking for handicap parking closer to the shopping centre. Also there needs to be a multi-storey car park on the corner of Charles and Howick streets. Trying to park for rehab or other classes is absolutely horrendous with some missing their classes because they can't find parking. It's so very wrong.

Local Government Minister Peter Gutwein and Premier Will Hodgman want to takeover TasWater and rob 29 councils’ ratepayers of $20 million. Twenty-nine councils, eight years ago, lodged with the government their water and sewerage assets upon takeover. Each year TasWater has paid each council a dividend based on the size of their asset. For example, Launceston City Council ratepayers asset $23 million; ratepayers $30,000. Each ratepayer has a share holding of $770. The dividend paid by TasWater $5 million yearly to the Launceston City Council. Each ratepayer receives about $165 a year dividend. The council put $5 million into consolidated revenue and use it in their budget. Perhaps the mayor and aldermen could use part of the $5 million dividend to reduce rates and water increases. I urge all ratepayers to contact their Legislative Council representative to vote against this Bill.