Councillor Warren Lee

Councillor Warren Lee sadly passed away last night, following a short battle with cancer.

"Our sincere sympathy is extended to Councillor Lee's family at this sad time," said Mayor Neil Sinclair. "Councillor Lee was a well-known and respected person in the Tirau community and will be sadly missed by many. As much as Councillor Lee stood for the Tirau Ward, he always looked at projects and initiatives with the whole district in mind."

Councillor Lee was serving his first term as a Councillor. He was the Council representative for the South Waikato Arts Trust (the Plaza). Councillor Lee is a stalwart of the South Waikato; he was schooled in Tokoroa, and many of his family still live here. He was a familiar face at the Tirau Information Centre before he took on the role of custodian at the Plaza in Putaruru. He was a keen photographer and artist and took a lead role in establishing Tirau as an arts centre, in collaboration with several local artists.

Councillor Lee's commitment to Council, the Tirau community and the South Waikato will be missed.

"The reason Councillor Lee stood for office is because he has always had the people of Tirau at heart," said Nora Martelletti, Chairperson of the Tirau Community Board. "The Board has appreciated his support on our projects; and we regret his passing. He will be missed."

Councillor Lee's funeral will be held on Saturday at 2.30pm at the South Waikato Sport and Events Centre; before he is laid to rest at a Mangakino marae.

The Local Electoral Act legislates that no by-election will be held if a position is vacated within 12 months before local government elections; so the position of Tirau Ward Councillor will remain vacant until the October elections, unless Council decides to appoint someone to the position.

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