The Break O’Day Council is questioning whether detailed information on the government’s TasWater take over plan exists.
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At its Monday meeting, the council successfully voted to make a submission to the Local Government Association and lobby the Legislative Council regarding its “significant concerns” with the proposed takeover.
In the council’s August agenda, general manager John Brown said correspondence had been sent to the government, but the response didn’t address the concerns and questions raised.
“The infrastructure report is limited in detail and contains substantial qualifications, it provides no detail on the funding model, and simply says that it could be achieved,” he said.
“Council has sought what it considers be reasonable information from the state government to enable it to make an informed decision in the best interests of the community.”
Mr Brown said the information was “lacking” leaving the council unable to develop the clear understanding and comfort needed to support the government’s proposal.
Under the takeover, the Break O’Day Council will lose assets worth about $33 million.
“It will also potentially result in a loss of $600,000 in annual income with a consequential effect of service delivery,” Mr Brown said.
Treasurer Peter Gutwein said he understood some councils did not support the plan.
“But the fact is no council, including Break O’Day, will be worse off as a result,” he said.
“Our plan is all about delivering better infrastructure sooner and at a cheaper price to ratepayers.”
Mr Gutwein said all commitments to the Tasmanian councils were “enshrined” in the legislation that is currently before parliament.
He said the government had provided “substantial” information, including high-level financial modelling from treasury, and a report by Infrastructure Tasmania which was reviewed by Pitt and Sherry, which showed the plan was achievable. A further economic assessment by treasury found the plan would be good for the economy and create jobs Mr Gutwein said.
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