Stratford residents have just a few days left to make their choices in the local government elections. The Stratford Press asked the two mayoral candidates for their thoughts on the electoral process.
Incumbent mayor, Neil Volzke, says that while he is pleased that voting numbers in Stratford are "better than a lot of places in New Zealand", he adds "it is still really disappointing that more people don't exercise their right to have their say and vote". Opponent Tony Milham hopes "the threat of amalgamation" may lead to an increase in numbers this year, adding "people certainly need to take part in the decision on the way forward to secure our district and community as a stand-alone district".
"The only wasted vote is a vote that is not cast," says Tony, and Neil agrees. "By helping the best candidates to get elected to council, under no circumstances have people wasted their vote." He adds, "it is really important for people to engage and feel that they have contributed," when it comes to determining who will lead the community for the next three years. Tony adds that "we should care enough to take three minutes to vote".
Asked why a person should vote for him, Tony says a vote for him "is a vote to develop and grow the Stratford district as one community". He adds this will "secure business confidence and a safe, well serviced community, both through the business and sports/social communities".
In facing the same question, Neil says the past four years of his mayoralty have given him "the experience and knowledge to serve Stratford well for another term". He adds, "I still have the passion to help keep Stratford to be a positive, caring and progressive community".
Have you seen the poll on our website? Go to www.stratfordpress.co.nz and select which candidate will be getting your vote in the election. At the time of going to print, Neil Volzke has a strong lead, showing him with 82 per cent of the votes to Tony Milham's 18 per cent.