Residents encouraged to take a stand

Clutha residents are being encouraged to consider standing in this year’s local elections.

Nominations for candidates wishing to stand in the 2022 local elections open on Friday, 15 July.

Clutha District Council Chief Executive Steve Hill says “We’re putting out the call for people to consider standing in the upcoming election. This is an opportunity to put yourself forward to be part of the governing bodies that help to shape the future of our district.

“You don’t need formal qualifications and elected members come from all walks of life. If you see yourself as a potential leader who can represent the voice of the community, then now’s the time to act. “

Nominations will be open for Clutha District Council, the West Otago and Lawrence-Tuapeka Community Boards, Clutha Health, and local licensing trusts. To stand for election, candidates need to be 18 years of age and over and enrolled to vote.

Nomination forms will be available from the council’s website or at Clutha Community Libraries from Friday until nominations close at noon on Friday, 12 August.

Rather than traditional candidate events, anyone interested in finding out more can arrange a confidential online meeting or phone conversation with council’s electoral officer. To support this, there is more information and a video for potential candidates on the council website at www.cluthadc.govt.nz/elections.

“This is an opportunity for people to learn more about the roles of elected members, the nomination and election processes and to ask any questions in private.”

Voting documents will be sent out from 16 September and must be received by the electoral officer by midday on Election Day – Saturday, 8 October.

Remember there’s more information for both candidates and voters at www.cluthadc.govt.nz/elections or candidates can call Electoral Officer Dale Ofsoske on 0800 922 822.