A workshop for those interested in local body politics will be held next week. Photo/File
A workshop for those interested in standing for the Rotorua Lakes Council, a community board, or the District Health Board will be held next week.
Electoral officer Warwick Lampp will hold a workshop for prospective candidates on Monday July 25 from 5-7pm at Rotorua Lakes Council Civic Centre.
"This is
an opportunity for people interested in standing in the 2016 elections to learn more about the nomination and election processes and the roles of councils and elected members. It's also a chance to have any questions answered," said Mr Lampp.
"We are encouraging anyone who wants to make a difference in the local community to stand. After all, local government and local democracy are fundamental to our community and provide the opportunity for everyone's voice to be heard. The mayor and councillors are elected to be community leaders and to represent the views and interests of all citizens."
The local government sector plays an important role.
In addition to giving citizens a say in how their communities are run councils own a broad range of community assets worth more than $120 billion. These include 90 per cent of New Zealand's road network, the bulk of the country's water and waste water networks, and libraries, recreation and community facilities.
Council expenditure nationally is approximately $8.5 billion dollars representing approximately 4 per cent of Gross Domestic Product and 11 per cent of all public expenditure.
"We need a range of elected members of different ages, ethnicities and backgrounds to represent the diversity of our community," said Mr Lampp.
"Anyone over the age of 18 can stand for election as long as they are a New Zealand citizen and enrolled on the electoral roll."
Nominations for candidates for Rotorua Lakes Council, Lakes and Rural community boards and Lakes District Health Board opened on July 15 and close on August 12.
Voting papers will be sent out from September 16 and must be received by the electoral officer by noon on Election Day, 8 October 2016.
For further information on standing as a candidate visit:
www.rotorualakescouncil.nz/Vote2016
www.lakesdhb.govt.nz
www.vote2016.co.nz
