WHAKATANE'S WATER SUPPLY

Bay of Plenty Beacon, Volume 3, Issue 259, 17 January 1941, Page 4

WHAKATANE'S WATER SUPPLY

THE focus of public attention on the limited nature of the town's water supply during- the drier months of the year make it very patent in a growing town such as ours, that something will have to be done eventually to cope with an increased demand. This Is a matter which has been exercising the municipal brain for some years past but as yet there seems to be little or no possibility of putting anything like a major scheme into operation until times are nearer normal and loan monies are easier to procure. At the same time it is a vital matter the attention to which is inescapable. No doubt the council will not want any guidance on the point, having carefully explored the possible sources of a future supply in the hills at the back of the town. Apart from the limited Waircre, there have been suggestions of the natural fall from the Maraetotara, a stream which has a healthy flow during summer and winter. The cost however is another matter and the stringency of the test for its suitability as drinking water is another question. Though the figures for average consumption, given by the Mayor at the last Council meeting revealed an absurd position and an inexcusable wastage taking place, there is no escaping the fact that had there been a greater population, it would h?we been infinitely worse. Whakatane is therefore faced with the obvious need for an improved water service, but is hampered in endeavouring to accomplish this by the ruling conditions plus the inadequacy of the rating returns. Citizens, in view of the above owe a duty to the Borough authorities which they can faithfully perform by conserving water during the summer and by strictly adhering to the new restrictions covering the use. of hoses on Uvr.is and gardens.