New Clutha District Council sworn in at inaugural meeting

The new Clutha District Council was sworn into office at a ceremony held at Te Pou Ō Mata Au | Clutha District War Memorial & Community Centre tonight (October 29).

New Clutha District Mayor Jock Martin acknowledged that while the district was still in a State of Emergency proceeding with the swearing in ceremony of the District leadership was important in these challenging times as it allowed elected members to have the powers to make necessary Council decisions.

Mayor Martin congratulated the newly elected council highlighting they were not only leaders but also representatives of the diverse voices and visions that made the Clutha District vibrant.

“As a council it’s important we commit to fostering an inclusive environment in our council.

“Diversity is our strength, and by embracing it, we can develop comprehensive strategies that reflect the needs of every resident in the Clutha District.”

Councillors Michele Kennedy, Bruce Graham and Dane Catherwood were sworn in to their seats from the last triennium. Simon McAtamney and Dean McCrostie were also sworn in again to their seats but, to new ward boundaries - Clinton-Clydevale and Bruce-Waihola wards respectively.

Four new councillors join the Council for the new triennium. Brendon Smith, Rachel Harrison are the new Balclutha Ward councillors. Larry Frost is the Milton Ward Councillor and Roger Cotton is the Lawrence-Tuapeka Ward Councillor.

Mayor Martin appointed the role of Deputy Mayor to Cr Kennedy, who was first elected to Council in 2010.

All traditional standing committees and chairs have been replaced by a portfolio model.

Mayor Martin said the change aimed to align the council's governance with the communities it serves, enhancing transparency.

“The change is to show transparency and with Councillors aligned to portfolios, they can channel the information into the community and weave the community back in with the organisation.”

Deputy Mayor

• Michele Kennedy

Executive Committee

• Mayor J. Martin
• Deputy Mayor M. Kennedy
• Cr. B Graham

Portfolio A Internal Services

• Mayor J. Martin
• DM M. Kennedy

Portfolio B Community Services

• Cr. B Graham
• Cr. B Smith

Portfolio C Finance & Policy

• Cr. S McAtamney
• Cr. D Catherwood

Portfolio D Infrastructure & Delivery Department

• DM M. Kennedy
• Cr. L Frost
• Cr. B Graham

Portfolio E Regulatory Department

• Cr. D McCrostie
• Cr. R Harrison

Portfolio F Four Waters (rural included)

• Mayor J. Martin
• Cr. R Cotton
• Cr. S McAtamney

ENDS

“He Tangata, He Tangata, He Tangata - It is People, It is People, It is People”