SDC chief resigns for move to Taranaki
Southland District Council chief executive Steve Ruru has resigned and is moving to Taranaki to be closer to extended family.
He has accepted a position as the new chief executive of the Taranaki Regional Council and will start in September.
Ruru was most proud of the Milford Opportunities Project, which he said would be a transformational project and leave a lasting legacy for generations.
The Southland District Council was facing an ageing infrastructure network. When asked what projects he was leaving unfinished, Ruru acknowledged the council’s infrastructure issues would be ongoing.
Of the district’s 850 bridges, 171 need to be replaced or closed in the next 12 years and a further 22 in the eight years after that.
Based on the current allocated funding there was a significant financial shortfall to replace or close all of these bridges within the required time frames, according to the council’s 2020-21 Annual Plan.
The district council had been pursuing the issue for ‘‘some time’’, Ruru said.
‘‘We know there are big issues, but we’re well on track for a long term plan to address those.’’
The decision to resign was difficult, he said.
‘‘I have enjoyed my time down here immensely and it’s been a fantastic opportunity,’’ Ruru said.
‘‘However, this is the right decision for me and my family at this time.’’
Ruru was appointed in July 2014, after three years as chief executive of the Kaipara District Council.
He replaced long-serving chief executive Dave Adamson.
Working in Taranaki would be a challenge, Ruru said.
‘‘It’s a great opportunity for a new challenge and the chance to lead a regional council during an exciting period in the local government sector, particularly with the ongoing focus on the broader water agenda,’’ Ruru said.
Southland District mayor Gary Tong said Ruru’s departure would be a great loss to Southland.
‘‘In the six years Steve has led the council we have moved ahead in many ways, especially in working with our communities,’’ Tong said.
‘‘Steve and I have had an open and transparent relationship and I have really appreciated his support both professionally and personally.
‘‘He is widely respected in both the local government sector and within central government.
‘‘We wish him and Ali well for the future.’’