Over-riding memories involve people; the movers and shakers, the optimists, public-spirited volunteers, the charitable and the chancers. They all play a part in the fabric which makes a community so rich and interesting.
There has been good news aplenty. Hamilton city celebrated half a century as a city in the late 1990s, little more than 51 years after servicemen returned from WWII. Waikato University marked several milestones, as did the Waikato Institute of Technology. WEL Energy was reclaimed as a community-owned entity after a sweetheart deal almost gave it away to corporate raiders.
Business incubator Innovation Waikato was set up with a $2 million investment each from the government, Hamilton City Council and WEL Energy. Another shared $6 million development - the Academy of the Performing Arts - saw funding from Waikato University, WEL Energy and the council.
City roading has improved out of sight and will culminate with the completion of the ring road project. Soon a city bypass will help link Auckland to Cambridge on the long-awaited expressway.
Waikato Hospital - with a largely rejuvenated campus - delivers 21st century services in multi million dollar, state-of-the-art surroundings.
Hamilton's future seems assured with the evolution of the Taunui Group-inspired central North Island inland port at Ruakura, continued agricultural advances, capitalising on the Auckland spillover and a renowned educational base.
Hamilton News has also covered a succession of destructive administrations - councils that seemed hellbent on spending their city to financial oblivion. In fact, it was on my watch that early warnings of indiscriminate spending were published as rising debt was predicted to reach $100 million. With the first two-term mayor elected in 18 years, and debt seemingly controlled, the city may at long last have stable governance.
We were there when protestors lost their battle against the casino; there was protest too over Waikato Stadium, built at the old rugby park with huge debt and still costing ratepayers $4 million or more a year to keep the doors open. Claudelands Events Centre, while reaching its man-made budgets, will be a $10 million annual burden on the city for a few years yet.
We have reported the demise of the central city and recent efforts to revitalise a CBD lacking vitality.
Hamilton News will be there when the spectre of water metering nears; when local government adopts a wider, more regional base; when stories affecting Hamilton and its people needs telling.
My successors will continue a community newspaper tradition of telling the truth without fear or favour. I have been proud to play my part. Thank you again for the opportunity.
