EDITORIAL
Water supply on the Central Coast has been a longstanding concern, with the harrowing impacts of the last drought still etched in our community’s memory.
During that difficult period, uncertainty loomed over the availability of this essential resource, sparking restrictions and urgent action.
In response, Central Coast Council, with crucial state and federal funding, launched extensive projects to secure our water future.
These efforts were welcomed by a region all too familiar with the devastating consequences of water scarcity.
Among these initiatives, the latest good news this week is the successful upgrade of Mardi Dam.
The Council’s water directorate deserves recognition for overseeing and completing this critical project, which bolsters the Central Coast’s water security.
This noteworthy achievement will undoubtedly prove valuable during the next drought period.
However, the financial burden of these efforts, coupled with other missteps, played a significant role in the Council’s financial crisis in 2020.
Since then, while Council has been under administration, residents have faced a sharp increase in water rates—a reality that has left many feeling the pinch.
While these water rate hikes were perhaps inevitable to cover costs, they have understandably been met with frustration by ratepayers who bear the brunt of these decisions in the middle of a cost of living crisis.
In this context, the recent legislation introduced by the NSW Government is a positive development.
The new laws bring much-needed clarity regarding our water authority’s ownership, operation and accountability.
This move is a welcome step toward ensuring transparency and fairness in delivering and charging water services.
We commend the government for addressing these concerns and setting the stage for improved governance in our water sector.
Yet, there is still unfinished business.
The issue of stormwater levies, as pointed out by the NSW Opposition, remains inadequately addressed.
Proper stormwater management is also vital for locals and overlooking this aspect risks undermining the progress made in other areas.
Water has always been at the heart of good governance in Australia.
As we move toward an elected body, every facet of water management must be given the careful consideration it demands.
David Abrahams – Managing Editor