Representation changes proposed

THE number of councillors, wards and community boards in Central Otago could change after a representation review.

The proposal could increase the number of councillors to 11, excluding the mayor, from 10, excluding the mayor.

The Alexandra and EarnscleughManuherikia wards would be combined to create the Vincent ward.

At last week’s council meeting, Mayor Tim Cadogan said the proposal would bring Vincent into line with other wards in the district.

‘‘It would bring us into some degree of consistency with Cromwell. They’ve never had a Cromwell township ward and a Cromwell rural ward . . . and I think over a period of time they’ve been well represented from all aspects of that large geographical ward.’’

Cr Victoria Bonham, of the EarnscleughManuherikia ward, said merging the two wards could mean the loss of the rural voice.

‘‘I do see a distinct difference between Alexandra and Clyde townships to rural Manuherikia, so I’d have to disagree.’’

Cr Martin McPherson, of Alexandra, disagreed.

‘‘A candidate who wishes to stand to represent the rural voice will pitch his or her message to the rural voice. You don’t necessarily have to live in the area to be effectively and passionately lobbying for the needs and aspirations of those people.’’

One councillor would be elected from each of the Maniototo and Teviot Valley wards, the same as now, and four councillors would be elected from the Cromwell ward, instead of three.

Five councillors would be elected from the Vincent ward, instead of three from the Alexandra ward and two from the EarnscleughManuherikia ward.

The Vincent Community Board would have four elected members instead of five, consistent with the Cromwell Community Board.

A report by council economic development manager Warwick Hawker said the council would notify the proposal on Thursday and the public could make submissions.

On September 12 the council would formally resolve the final proposal. Appeals could still be made after that.