Time running out for local candidates to step forward

Released: Wednesday 7 August 2019

With a limited number of nominations received for the South Waikato District Council elections in October, Deputy Electoral Officer Jude Cuttriss is reminding people they only have until midday on Friday 16 August to get their nominations in.

More than 60 Candidate Information Packs have been taken by interested people and to date the Council has received only 13 nominations:

One nomination for Mayor

One nomination for the Tīrau Ward

Four nominations for the Putāruru Ward

Seven nominations for the Tokoroa Ward

• No nominations for the Tīrau Community Board

Mrs Cuttriss says if you’re a New Zealand citizen, over 18 years of age and you’re on the electoral roll you can stand as a candidate.

“Candidates need a desire to represent their community and make a difference to the South Waikato on a very grassroots, real level,” she continued.

Council enjoys a high level of engagement from many in its community and encourages people interested in Council and the activities and services it delivers to consider putting a nomination in.

Anyone wishing to stand as an elected member must be nominated by two people enrolled in the district or ward you intend to stand, and pay a deposit of $200. Nominations close at noon on Friday 16 August.

Meanwhile, South Waikato District Council also reminds everyone in the community that voting in local body elections is equally important.

“Only 44.4% of eligible voters cast their vote in the 2016 elections,” continued Mrs Cuttriss. “While this was 2% higher than the national average, it’s still pretty low. A good pool of candidates and interest in how the district is managed going forward can increase voter statistics.”

Council encourages all eligible residents to ensure they are enrolled to vote and to have their say when voting papers arrive in late September.

Current nominations received can be viewed on here.

ENDS. Words: 314