A year on as a councillor - Gavin Todd

Birdtalk Magazine Dec 2023 & Jan 2024
IT IS just over a year since I was elected as your Council Representative. It has been a very enlightening experience to see how extensive an entity local body councils are.

The ratepayers elected four new councillors out of six, plus the sitting Mayor, each bringing their own skill set to the table. I think we have a good mix of experience and fresh new ideas. And so far, I think we have worked very well together as a team.

Council recently voted on Maori Wards. Councillors unanimously voted against Maori Wards and in favour of a committee comprising of Maori and Council representatives. The committee will not have voting rights. I personally think this is a good outcome as Maori Wards have several disadvantages for Maori representation.

The Piopio Cosmopolitan Club carpark is to get a much needed upgrade. The new carpark will be an asset to the district.

Even though Piopio isn’t prone to flooding, because of the unpredictable heavy downpours that we seem to be getting recently, please be on the look out for water leaks and keep storm water inlets clear of any debris. Please notify Council of any leaks etc, so that treated water is not wasted at considerable expense.

I hope this finds everyone well and looking forward enthusiastically to the Summer season (hopefully we get one this year).

Please don’t hesitate to contact me with any concerns or queries you might have