Editorial: Council: Readers are watching

The implementation of water restrictions in Hawke's Bay have upset local residents.

Few things get our readers more upset than when our local councils do something they consider unfair (even if there may be good reason).

Take, for example, the water restrictions introduced by the Hastings District Council.

It is perfectly understandable these restrictions have been brought in. River levels are low, so it is only prudent to tell residents they can use only hoses or sprinklers in the early morning or at night.

However, what irritates our readers is the council doing exactly what it tells us not to do.

We have had a few texts and comments on our website and Facebook page from people telling us they have seen council sprinkler systems working hard in the the noonday sun, watering our parks and sports fields.

Why should we be restricted, the readers ask, when the council thumbs its nose at its own rules? On the face of it, they have a point.

However, the council counters by saying it would be doing all the sportsmen and women, boys and girls a disservice by providing sub-standard fields.

HDC water services manager Brett Chapman says the council does cut back during the dry months and waters only the essential gardens, parks and fields.

But he hastens to add the main offender for peak summer demand is home irrigation of lawns and gardens and, since the restrictions were announced, significant water has been saved. This means the restrictions are working.

I suppose it is about making a compromise, but the council should be aware our sharp-eyed readers will be watching.