Over the leaching Levin Landfill?

Vote for candidates calling for closure…

Recently, we sent a survey to 27 candidates standing in the Local Government elections.

The key question was:

“Q: After spending over $1M of ratepayers’ money on a report recommending early closure of the Levin Landfill in 2023 and, after 95% of submitters supported it, the council voted against the recommendation (April (2022). What’s your view and will you support closure in 2023?”

Great news… 16 candidates (66%) want immediate closure. Most have a strong commitment to seeing it on the HDC order paper before Christmas. Here’s what some had to say:

“The community has spoken strongly; crucially the landfill in not compliant. We need to stop talking about it and make the ONLY logical decision NOW.” Rogan Boyle Waiopehu Ward

“I supported the closure when it was defeated in April. The community and iwi want it closed so it’s a ‘no brainer’.”

Robert Ketu Miranui Ward

“I supported Option 1, to close the landfill in 2022. I supported that option again in April. I fully commit to the remediation of the old dump.” Bernie Wanden current Mayor

“I will support closure in 2023 provided Council completes successful negotiations with a suitable third party to take responsibility for dealing effectively and efficiently with the landfill and its legacy.”

Brett Russell Kere Kere Ward.

“I support the closure of the landfill in 2023. I also support a robust process for remediation as soon as practical.” Veronica Pitt Levin Ward

If you care about our environment, consider this list carefully.

Note 8 candidates, including four sitting councillors (Sam Jennings,

David Allan, Ross Brannigan & Piri-Hira

Tukapua) voted against immediate closure in April. Along with 4 other candidates (listed), they didn’t reply to our survey (DNR).

How they voted…

Mayoral Candidates

Bernie Wanden (current Mayor)

Victoria Kaye-Simmons (current councillor)

Sam Jennings (current councillor)

Levin Ward

Alan Young

Athol Kirk

Carl Van Den Berg

Clint Grimstone

Jane Vailaua Masoe

Kelly Tahiwi

Veronica Pitt

Mike Barker

Piri-Hira Tukapua

Sam Jennings

Yes

Yes

DNR

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes

DNR

DNR

DNR

Miranui Ward

Paul Olsen Robert Ketu

Kere Kere Ward

Brett Russell John Girling David Allan Ross Brannigan

Waiopehu Ward

Barry Aylward Rogan Boyle Jonathan Procter

Horowhenua Maori Ward

Justin Tamihana Nina Hori Te Pa Troy O’Carroll

Horizons Regional Council

Donald Hayes Emma Clarke Sam Ferguson

Find out more