Reply from Barbara Price Area "B"

I support water conservation measures we can all support. For example incentives to install water saving fixtures, plumbing system revamps and enforcement of water restrictions.

Water meters have proven to be an effective way of reducing water use. However at present they are widely unpopular partly due to cost and also through lack of consideration of wider implications. I support the present action which is to put water meters on hold. There will be public meetings possibly as early as February. I support full public process with voter assent prior to any further action on water meters.

There are many concerns around water meters, not least the cost. It is also seen as penalizing large families on low incomes or those who wish to grow their own food.

There have been discussions regarding a possible deep water intake; however the costs of this are unknown at present. This solution would have the added benefit of increasing fish populations in the Puntledge River. Increasing river temperatures have led to declining fish stock and the deep water intake would lower the river temperature.

I support inter jurisdictional watershed protection. Water knows no boundaries and is necessary for survival.

We now have a Comox Valley Water Commission, of which I am presently the vice chair, to look at regional water distribution. I think this is a good vehicle to ensure good quality and quantity of drinking water in the region and into the future.

With all best wishes,
Barbara