Candidate pulls plug on bid for council seat
Online information on council candidates to help voters
Local body election candidate Shane Beech has withdrawn from the race to win a seat on the Western Bay of Plenty District Council. Beech was among 12 candidates chasing one of the four seats available in the Maketu¯-te Puke ward.
There’s a one stop shop for those wanting to match the names of local body election candidates to faces, and learn more about the people standing.
Photos and profiles for those standing in the Western Bay of Plenty District Council’s election are now online at generationchange.nz to help the community get to know the people vying for their votes.
Council CEO John Holyoake is very pleased with the diversity and number of candidates who may represent the district soon, as voters get ready to approach the ballot boxes.
“The Western Bay community will be deciding in the coming weeks about who they want to represent them moving forward.
“These profiles give voters a chance to learn a bit more about our candidates and ensure they can
He said he was standing down for health and personal reasons.
“It’s something I wanted to do and it’s probably one of the toughest decisions I’ve had to make, withdrawing,” he said.
“I did want to go for it this time and I felt quite positive and that I had a good chance.”
He said he hoped to be in a position make an informed decision when it’s time to put pen to paper,” he says.
Like all council candidates across the district, part of the candidate nomination process is sharing why, in 150 words or fewer, they want to represent their community
Candidates have also provided a photo of themselves to sit next to their profile.
But these profiles are not the only opportunity to get to know candidates.
This month, the council will be sharing answers from a voluntary questionnaire.
Candidates have been asked pa¯tai (questions) that include their perspective on some issues the new to stand again in three years’ time.
Beech has served on Maketu¯ Community Board for four terms, three as chairman, but was not standing for a fifth term. council may encounter and some more light-hearted insights.
“These candidates are people too, and they’re more than the roles they’re hoping to fill.
“So, we’ve asked them what they love about the Western Bay, and what they like to do for fun,” says John.
“We look forward to sharing this content with everyone soon.”
Key dates to remember are for voting, which begins on September 16, and closes at noon on October 8.
“Getting to know your candidates today will help shape the tomorrow of our district.
“Get online, get to know the people who want your vote, and, most importantly, get to a ballot box and have your say,” says John.