Posted 17/08/13
Nominations closed yesterday at midday. For what they're worth, here are my observations:
There are 7 nominations for the mayoralty. Not really a surprise as the last time the incumbent stood down, there were 8 candidates. That was back in 2001 when Alan McLay was successfully elected as Mayor.
Councillors: There are 12 nominations for the 6 places in the Oamaru Ward. I'm pleased to see a good mix of new people who have come forward, including some very real contenders. And particularly pleasing to see we might get a better range of ages and backgrounds. In the Corriedale Ward, we have 7 candidates for the 2 places. Again, voters have some credible options to choose from. The Waihemo ward has 3 people standing for the single position, so there will be an election there. Again, some good choices for voters. The big disappointment this election is the lack of a candidate for the Ahuriri Wards sole position. That means we have a by-election before we even start. This will be held early next year and means more cost. The by-election for the Ahuriri will also be needed for their community Board as only 3 people have come forward for the 5 positions. The Waihemo Community Board, on the other hand, is in the very healthy position of having 9 candidates for its 5 places.
So, a bit of a mixed bag, but generally very encouraging. As I've said before, I'm happy to work with anyone who is keen to do the best for the district, has a pragmatic approach and can bring a positive attitude to the role. The district needs a united council to move forward and provide the good decision making to get Waitaki moving. That doesn't mean having everyone agree on everything all of the time of course! It will take good leadership to bring this new Council together and that is one of the crucial challenges I am looking forward to! I believe that more than any other candidate, I have the background and the proven ability to bring together the group of Councillors that are voted in, to make the decisions which need to be made. In 8 weeks time, we'll know whether enough people agree!
Here's the list of nominations for the councils across the region, courtesy of the Otago Daily Times:
Nominations closed yesterday at midday. For what they're worth, here are my observations:
There are 7 nominations for the mayoralty. Not really a surprise as the last time the incumbent stood down, there were 8 candidates. That was back in 2001 when Alan McLay was successfully elected as Mayor.
Councillors: There are 12 nominations for the 6 places in the Oamaru Ward. I'm pleased to see a good mix of new people who have come forward, including some very real contenders. And particularly pleasing to see we might get a better range of ages and backgrounds. In the Corriedale Ward, we have 7 candidates for the 2 places. Again, voters have some credible options to choose from. The Waihemo ward has 3 people standing for the single position, so there will be an election there. Again, some good choices for voters. The big disappointment this election is the lack of a candidate for the Ahuriri Wards sole position. That means we have a by-election before we even start. This will be held early next year and means more cost. The by-election for the Ahuriri will also be needed for their community Board as only 3 people have come forward for the 5 positions. The Waihemo Community Board, on the other hand, is in the very healthy position of having 9 candidates for its 5 places.
So, a bit of a mixed bag, but generally very encouraging. As I've said before, I'm happy to work with anyone who is keen to do the best for the district, has a pragmatic approach and can bring a positive attitude to the role. The district needs a united council to move forward and provide the good decision making to get Waitaki moving. That doesn't mean having everyone agree on everything all of the time of course! It will take good leadership to bring this new Council together and that is one of the crucial challenges I am looking forward to! I believe that more than any other candidate, I have the background and the proven ability to bring together the group of Councillors that are voted in, to make the decisions which need to be made. In 8 weeks time, we'll know whether enough people agree!
Here's the list of nominations for the councils across the region, courtesy of the Otago Daily Times:
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