The Güímar Local Authority, following a thorough review, has chosen to postpone the proposed increase in water fees presented by Aqualia, the provider of water supply and sewage services. This decision aims to “ensure that any adjustments in service costs accurately reflect the situation in our town,” as highlighted by the Government faction.
As a result, the Güimarero Local Authority has commissioned an “in-depth” analysis to evaluate and quantify the developments in the concession agreement for public water supply and sewage services.
This examination “will be conducted to guarantee strict adherence to the technical requirements outlined in the contract terms, as well as to verify the suitability of the proposed rate hike” put forth by the company, emphasised the local council.
One of the primary focal points of scrutiny will be the existing status of the investment scheme that Aqualia is mandated to implement, with particular focus on the over two million euros that the concessionaire was supposed to invest during the initial three years of the concession and other commitments agreed upon in the contract.
Aqualia has justified its suggestion for a 19% rise in water charges based on the rise in the Consumer Price Index (CPI), energy expenses, and salary increments for company personnel. However, the Local Authority deems it “crucial to conduct a thorough assessment” before proceeding with any fee adjustments, as stressed by the Güimarero government.
Despite the regulations allowing for price reviews every two years, the Local Authority is unwilling to implement the proposed increase without having all the necessary assurances in place to back it up. “It is imperative that water fees are equitable and affordable for Güímar’s residents,” the Government faction states, adding that “thus, we aim to ascertain that Aqualia’s proposed rise aligns with the town’s reality and that the contract terms have been adhered to.”
The Güímar Local Authority reiterates its dedication to transparency and safeguarding citizens’ interests, declaring that “we will keep the public informed of any further developments on this matter once the requisite assessment has been finalised,” as per Government team officials.
United Indeed We Can
Nayra Caraballero, USP councillor in the Güímar Local Authority and in charge of Rural Development, Agriculture, Rural Tourism, and Citizen Participation, argues that “an independent audit is necessary to verify the justification of the increase or if it is an attempt by the company to boost its profits at Güímar’s residents’ expense” and raises allegations of “non-compliance” by the service concessionaire for the upcoming 25 years.
