The Chania Municipal Council has formally rejected the government’s plan for the mandatory merging of water utilities, deeming it unconstitutional and detrimental to local governance. Mayor Panagiotis Simandireakis highlighted concerns over the proposed legislative changes by the Ministry of Environment, emphasizing that they undermine the crucial work of local water authorities. The council’s resolution warns that the enforced mergers could lead to operational challenges and threaten the well-being of local communities. The council demands an open dialogue with relevant ministries to address underlying issues affecting water management.