Help keep kaipara moving forward

 

Local Government elections are rolling around again. October 12 is Election Day and Kaipara residents, as much as anywhere, need to give consideration to where they see their part of Kaipara heading and how they might assist in the process.

The current Council has brought about the first semblance of stability that Kaipara has enjoyed for a decade. Progress in overcoming the maladies of the past has been slow, but it is progress nonetheless and the growth and general optimism that pervades offers an ideal foundation to any prospective candidate to join a forward-thinking body. The campaign begins officially on July 1 so it is now timely to be giving serious consideration to adding your name to the list of candidates.

A number of incumbents, including the mayor, have indicated they will stand again but the population increase, particularly in the east, also gives a strong possibility that new blood and new thinking could feature this time round. 

Kaipara District Council apart, representation is also required on the Northland District Health Board and the Whangarei Regional Council which should appeal to candidates with a wide range of skills.

This is not just a doddle. There is a considerable amount to learn regarding the running of such an entity. The new KDC CEO, Louise Miller, is now firmly settled in and with such things as a review of the District Plan, Provincial Growth Fund money, debt reduction and improvements in customer services, community involvement and consultation in progress, there is ample opportunity for community-minded people to step forward and become a part of the progress which Kaipara promises.