Candidates needed for community boards
As the deadline for local government candidate nominations draws closer Waipā residents are being urged to apply for the districts two community boards.
Since opening candidate nominations last month, one application for mayor, 23 applications for councillor and seven applications for local community boards have been received in full by Waipa District Council. There are 13 councillors and 11 community board member positions available, plus one mayoral position.
Chief executive Garry Dyet said while the number of nominations for councillors had exceeded the number of available positions, there were still some vacant spots on the community boards.
"Our local community boards play an important role in progressing community issues and ideas through to Council and are a great opportunity for those who want to get involved in council but only have limited time to participate. With nominations closing at midday on Friday, I would encourage anyone thinking of applying to get in quick and do so."
Waipā has two local community boards, one in Te Awamutu covering the Te Awamutu and Kakepuku wards and one in Cambridge, covering Cambridge and Maungatautari wards.
The role of a community board member is to represent and act as an advocate for the interests of their community locals and make decisions within the delegations provided by Council.
"As a board member you will also represent the community to other agencies, monitor the provision of council services and advocate for change when necessary," Dyet said.
Those interested in running for the position of mayor, councillors or community board members have until 12 noon on Friday 16 August to submit their applications.
For more information about the roles and responsibilities of each position and for candidate nomination forms head to waipadc.govt.nz/elections. Forms can also be picked up in person at the Cambridge or Te Awamutu council offices.