Hanover Councillor Selwyn Hicks wants Hanover to take the plunge and get into the rain barrel business.
He persuaded council to instruct staff to investigate partnership opportunities regarding rain barrels.
This after a staff recommended that the town not be involved in the sale of rain barrels and other water reduction items.
Hicks disagrees — saying this is an opportunity for the town to promote a very effective water conservation tool.
He says there are a multitude of municipalities that have embraced the concept — including Brockton — which ran a very successful rain barrel program.
Hicks says water is a precious resource that should not be taken lightly — and rain barrels can conserve town water.
Hicks doesn’t want Hanover to compete with retailers, but rather work with them in some form of partnership.
Hicks hopes the town town will purchase a large number of rain barrels in bulk at a discount price and sell it to residents at cost.
He doesn’t think many residents won’t spend 80 to 100 dollars on a rain barrel, but they would be willing to spend 25 or 30 dollars.
The town is also sending out an information package to residents.
It highlights the benefits of switching to water saving toilets, shower heads and appliances such washing machines and toilets.
