Councillors sworn in for CHB
Central Hawke's Bay's elected members and returning mayor Alex Walker were sworn in as the district's representatives for the next triennium at a powhiri and ceremony on Thursday evening at the Waipawa Municipal Theatre.
Mayor Alex Walker has returned for a second term after receiving the majority of votes in this year's local body elections. She is joined by five returning councillors — Tim Chote, Gerard Minehan, Tim Aitken, Brent Muggeridge, and Kelly Annand, and three new faces Exham Wicham, Jerry Greer and Kate Taylor.
Mayor Walker set the scene for the new council's next three years and appointed her deputy mayor, councillor Kelly Annand, in her third term.
Mayor Walker talked about the exciting future for Central Hawke's Bay and the steps that council will need to take over the coming years to continue to build a thriving a prosperous district.
“As we enter a new triennium, it is imperative we continue the momentum on building excellence for our community, and begin to sharpen our focus on the mechanisms that we have for true transformation for the future. We want to be proud, prosperous and strong communities, well connected with each other and with those outside of Central Hawke's Bay, and we want to cherish our beautiful environment for future generations.
“I am committed to leading a team that is united, transparent with each other, with our staff and with our community. I am committed to leading a team that is always in the pursuit of excellence, as we commit to great governance and leadership skills.
“I love being your Mayor – every day. I love it when it's exciting and positive, but I also love it when it's hard. It is an incredible privilege that I treasure every day.”
“I'm honoured to be appointed as deputy mayor for Central Hawke's Bay and am looking forward to continuing to serve my district to the best of my ability over the coming term, and to support the mayor in her duties,” Deputy mayor and councillor Kelly Annand said.
Te Aute College students performed, welcoming the members, who were supported by close family and friends.
The first official council meeting will take place at 9am on Thursday November 14 at the Waipawa Council Chambers.