Seymour not seeking re-election to GDC

Pat Seymour

Councillor Pat Seymour is not seeking re-election to Gisborne District Council this year.

“I have been on the council since 2001. Now Nick and I want to have the freedom to do more things together,” Cr Seymour said in a statement.

“I have made the council my first commitment and I've been pleased and proud to do that but that does mean sometimes you can't do other things. Nick has always supported my time on the council but now it is time to do something different. “I have worked with four chief executives and they each brought a different perspective to the role and to council.

Mrs Seymour said central Government was constantly increasing bureaucracy on local government, “and making everyone's job more challenging”.

“In my view both the RMA (Resource Management Act) reforms, bringing in the new Natural and Built Environment Act and the Three Waters reforms do not augur well for Tairawhiti.

“They create greater distance for ratepayers between the users of the services and those who make the rules and determine the investment,” she said.

She urged those thinking of standing for election this year to think about the commitment required. “Be prepared to put in the time to attend meetings and to listen to your ratepayers,” she said.

“Working with and for ratepayers and the community is the most satisfying part of being a councillor.

“I thank all those voters who have supported my re-election to the council over many years. I wish the new council all the best.

“I shall still be out there for our community in various ways up to and beyond October 2022.”