Council to juggle conflicting demands

Christchurch’s six new city councillors face one of the thorniest challenges of their role – how to juggle the conflicting demands of residents.

Some of the city’s most influential figures have greeted the results with excitement and optimism.

Revitalising the central city and supporting business remain a high priority for many, and Canterbury Employers’ Chamber of Commerce chief executive Leeann Watson hopes the new council will be bold enough to challenge established ways of operating.

Watson said she was ‘‘encouraged’’ by the change around the council table and new chief executive Dawn Baxendale being balanced by the continuity and momentum offered by mayor Lianne Dalziel. She hoped the council would review its asset base and the possibility of strategic partners to assess whether it was the right way to cut rates and fund infrastructure.

Developer and investor Richard Peebles said it was good to see some ‘‘new blood’’, singling out new Burwood councillor Phil Mauger as bringing business experience and Coastal representative James Daniels as a ‘‘good public figure’’.

Peebles, whose Riverside Market opened earlier this month, said: ‘‘I just hope they get the stadium organised quickly. That would be the top priority – we need to kick on with the central city and get that done. The multi-use arena will really put us on the map.’’

Extinction Rebellion spokeswoman Julie Downard said the council must build on the strong steps taken in tackling climate change – and be courageous over making unpopular decisions.

‘‘The next three years what we do is going to make the difference.

‘‘What we need right now is politicians that are willing to make the changes that we need, regardless of whether or not they get voted back in. There needs to be some selflessness there.’’

Christchurch Youth Council’s executive committee chairman Dom Wilson said it was ‘‘exciting’’ to see so many younger candidates, with three councillors in their twenties, and the council having a ‘‘unique opportunity’’ to create change for young people.