25 Oct - 31 Oct
LOCALLY OWNED SINCE FOREVER
No 874
LAKES WEEKLY BULLETIN
JO
BS
27 IN 1 S ID
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Enthusiasm and optimism Thank you to all those who voted; Local Government is an important institution that does make a difference to the District. All candidates stood with courage and belief, and we should all show gratitude towards them. Whether you were successful or not, they are all community leaders. The campaign for local government has now finished. Signs are down; however, as I write, new ones pop up for the Central Lakes Trust; please take the time to register your vote for these critical positions. The first two weeks of being the Queenstown Lakes District’s Mayor have been exciting. I must admit it is a strange job transition, walking into what is now my office, empty, with no human touches, just a bare desk and a pot plant in the corner. The empty chair at the desk hit home, and the Mayor’s role was now my position to look after for the next three years. The first week consisted of briefings with the chief executive and the governance team, followed by one-on-one meetings with the councillors and catching up with the Wanaka Community Board members. We discussed what we wanted to achieve over the next triennium and what roles councillors would like to play. All discussions were fruitful, and the most enjoyable part was the enthusiasm from all. It gave me confidence that we have the makings of an excellent team for the District.
Arrowtown’s Atheneum Hall will come alive on November 12 when Queenstown’s very own big band, the Queenstown Jazz Orchestra returns with a night smooth sultry tones of jazz. See story on page 27
As I was getting used to arriving at chambers every day, Wellington beckoned for Mayor’s school. Wellington consisted of two days spent learning from existing mayors and guest speakers, giving different perspectives on approaching issues, building a team, and maintaining our well-being. It was also interesting to listen to the problems prevalent in other Districts; finding staff and transport were recurring themes. The second week, I had my second catch-up with the chief executive. I ask myself, where did the first week go? We make our declarations on Thursday, and we are all now official. An excellent way to start celebrating our new councillors with their family and friends. I look forward to the coming three years with optimism that this District will return stronger post covid. My current focus is building a councillor team that is enthusiastic and collaboratively works together. There is a daunting amount of work before us, especially government reform, a tighter financial outlook and climate change. I am confident that the councillors elected will do their job with diligence and care, with the community’s interests at the forefront of their minds. Queenstown Lakes District Mayor Glyn Lewers
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