To propose that the water rates are to be doubled, from this humbug council that cannot understand the needs of the people in these difficult times, is dumfounding. They have come up with another way of covering their huge debts from their reckless spending, and their continuation of borrowing money.
This latest proposal proves beyond doubt that they are out of touch with how it feels to live from week to week paying their mortgages, rates, water rates, power, food, school fees and school related costs, petrol and other car running costs (which are taxed to the hilt) and trying to keep up with inflation and rising food costs, on a weekly wage that is rarely enough to cover these costs and price rises weekly making it even harder to survive, is utterly disgusting and obscene. Where do these arrogant people think the money is coming from? How much more can you squeeze from the ratepayer? How much longer are the ratepayers going to be squashed before they say 'enough”? Are council so out of touch with the lower income earners? Something is wrong with our society.
Our rates are first and foremost for the benefit of ALL the people, and needs should be met before wants.... Let's get this lot out and get some grassroots people in who understand priorities. When these are met, then we can spend on frivolities.

A. Taylor, Avenues.