DEMOCRACY HQ: A Personal view with Steve Morris

Tauranga has lost a dose of common sense with the passing of former city councillor Bill Faulkner.

First elected in 1983, Bill served eight non-consecutive terms during 30 years, often focusing on what he saw as essential infrastructure over more glamorous projects. His legacy is the best quality water in New Zealand, a harbour free from sewer overflows, and motorways built.

Bill’s determination helped bring microfiltration technology to Tauranga’s water plants years ahead of other cities. He wasn’t afraid to take unpopular stances, such as leading the charge on water meters, even though it cost him his seat once. His perspective was clear: why should you pay for your neighbour to waste water when you only use it for necessities? It bought Tauranga 15 years before we needed the next water plant.

Bill led the $100m Southern Pipeline project to connect the Chapel St and Te Maunga wastewater treatment plants.

Eliminating sewage overflows into the harbour. He had the vision to support the construction of Route P (now Takitimu Drive), Route J, and the Route K toll road. Essential roads that council had to build because the Government of the day refused.

Beyond utilities, Bill looked out for future ratepayers by supporting the acquisition of Smith’s and Paurau Farms as future parks and reserves. Sadly, these are in the process of being sold off.

Bill kept residents up-to-date on happenings in council in his ‘Faulkner's Corner’ column here in The Weekend Sun. Some of his former colleagues didn’t always welcome his appraisals!

Bill’s pragmatic approach has left a mark on Tauranga. His concentration on tangible improvements over nice-to-have projects may have upset some. Still, his influence is undeniable every time you turn on your tap, flush the toilet, or drive your car.