Harvey to take reigns as deputy
Top polling Taupo District Councillor Rosie Harvey has been appointed deputy mayor.
The announcement was made by Mayor David Trewavas at the inaugural meeting of the council this week where members were officially sworn in for their three year term.
Trewavas said Harvey’s appointment reflected the strong mandate she had received from the community.
‘‘Rosie is a well-respected business woman and brings extensive knowledge and leadership qualities to the council chamber,’’ he said.
‘‘Together we make a fantastic team and one that is ready to move the district forward.’’
Councillor Harvey said she felt privileged to be appointed to the deputy role and would do her absolute best to support Trewavas, her council colleagues and the district as a whole.
‘‘Making important decisions on behalf of our community is a role I take incredibly seriously and being appointed deputy mayor is even more special,’’ she said.
‘‘I appreciate the vote of confidence the community has given me and look forward to building on the successes we as a council have achieved over the past three years.’’
Harvey campaigned on a strong business platform using her experience - a long career running a business in the central business district - as linchpin in her campaign.
In the 2013 election Harvey was the lowest polling councillor but she received a massive increase of voter support in the 2016 election to rise to the top.
She accepts her result as a vote of confidence voters showed in her. ‘‘I am really proud of it,’’ she said. ‘‘I think it is because I am a straight shooter. I’m like that in business and the community.’’
Harvey said the appointment as deputy mayor will give her more opportunities to promote business, and assist families in town.
‘‘I think it will give me more credibility,’’ she said.
‘‘I will be able to understand the issues better and work more with Mayor David Trewavas on plans and share his vision.’’