The government of Hong Kong is facing calls to abandon its plans to increase charges for water. The current water charges in Hong Kong have remained unchanged for nearly three decades. Sze Lai-shan, from the Society for Community Organization, has suggested waiving water charges for people living in sub-divided flats or providing them with a subsidy. DAB lawmaker Edward Leung has proposed implementing cost-cutting measures before considering any increase in charges. The Water Supplies Department is facing financial difficulties and requires additional income [3691fd75].
In Flagstaff, Arizona, citizens are facing criticism for opposing a water rate change. Mark Cederholm, in a letter to the editor, argues that it's time to face the reality of the situation and be grateful for the progress made in water systems. He dismisses concerns about gas stoves being taken away as a misdirection tactic. Cederholm emphasizes the need for citizens to appreciate the efforts made to ensure clean and reliable water [0ca8ba82].
Democrats in the Arizona Legislature have expressed concern over the Republican majority's handling of water security and groundwater pumping. Senator Priya Sundareshan and Representative Christopher Mathis, in an opinion piece for the Arizona Daily Star, argue that recently passed bills would weaken existing groundwater laws and put urban water supplies at risk. They specifically criticize SB1172, which allows lands that aren't using water to receive credits to pump water and build homes, potentially leading to increased groundwater pumping. They also mention SB1221, a failed bill that aimed to manage rural groundwater but was seen as favoring large corporate pumpers over small farmers. The Democrats propose a more flexible, locally driven alternative to existing groundwater management tools. They emphasize the need to empower rural communities with the tools to manage their water supplies and call for continued negotiations and a comprehensive legislative package [8abb7346].
Arizona, like other desert states, faces water scarcity. The average rainfall is around 9 inches, and some areas have even less. Communities in Phoenix have had water rights revoked, making houses without water uninhabitable. The writer suggests banning non-native plants, non-city or town swimming pools, outdoor spas, family and corporate farms, ranches, and golf courses to conserve water. Flagstaff has limits on house construction, which contributes to higher prices. The writer calls for assumable house loans and taking responsibility for water waste to address soaring house prices and potential water rationing and taxes. Lowering prices on native plants is also suggested [de1faf4c].