Your city is your community. This is where you live. You have a right to make a statement about choosing the people you would like to drive council decision-making over the next three years.
Getting the people you want to represent you, and your interests, requires a bit of thought in terms of researching the ideal candidate and then making sure you return you postal votes within the prescribed time.
Voting in this election is also an opportunity to show Lower Hutt residents and ratepayers have an active interest in their local authority and a commitment to improving the city for future generations.
There is a bit more at stake this time round.
Lower Hutt is in good shape. We are sound and have invested in our infrastructure. We have started a programme of progressively improving our community facilities.
The new council that you elect will be faced with consideration of a Local Government Commission proposal on the future of local government governance structures. This is likely to be consulted on early in the New Year.
The new council will also oversee the development of the city’s administrative centre in Laings Road and many other projects designed to improve our city, including a planned upgrade of the city halls.
Implementation of the new urban growth strategy will also take the attention of the mayor and councillors during the new triennium.
Someone said voters need an incentive to get out and vote. Motivation could include selecting a city council that will continue to constrain the level of rate increases and be prudent when it comes to spending.
But most of a new council needs a mandate to govern. And that is truly possible when citizens step up and vote for their preferred candidates.
I am keen to see a minimum turn-out of 45 per cent of our eligible voters.
The election result is announced on Saturday 12 October…I hope your vote will be included.
Yes, lets hope that this year people decide to vote for someone who will actually listen about issues that affect everyone.
ReplyDeleteWe need a Mayor that will not fence sit or cover up for the government on issues such as fluoridation.
It doesn't take half a brain to see the practice was based on false science, and I am tired of getting the brush off from the Ministry of Health and the Mayor when I write to try and understand why they are ignoring the new facts about fluoride.
I won't be voting for you Ray Wallace.