Lami services deteriorating under current system, says former mayor

Declining municipal services in Lami Town have underscored the urgent need for the return of elected councils, according to Lami resident and former town mayor, Tevita Vuatalevu.

Speaking during an interview yesterday, Mr Vuatalevu, who is also a businessman, pointed to deteriorating waste collection, road maintenance and overgrown public spaces as signs of weakened service delivery under the current system.

“The services have deteriorated a bit it’s not as what it should be in the past,” Mr Vuatalevu said.

He feels rapid population growth and expanding industrial and residential areas have placed increased pressure on limited resources, worsening the situation.

Mr Vuatalevu welcomed moves to reintroduce municipal elections, saying it would allow properly elected leaders to address service gaps and plan effectively.

“I believe local government is trying very hard to get things organised now and this is the right step,” Mr Vuatalevu said.

He also called for proper planning and Government support before councils are reinstated, stressing that financial and structural readiness would be critical to improving service delivery.

“Finance is the main thing. The Government must assist, especially in the beginning,” he said.

Mr Vuatalevu added that restoring municipal governance will help ensure ratepayers receive the level of service they expect.