Howick Local Board deserves better than Lucy Schwaner offered.
PRESS RELEASE: Lucy Schwaner fails to understand local democracy.
Mark Johnson, the Labour candidate for the vacant local board seat in the Botany Sub-division, said he is concerned over Ms Schwaner’s evident lack of understanding of the nature of the Local Board structure, given her comments after her decision to resign from the Local Board immediately after losing the vote to Chair the Board.
On the Stuff website Friday, Schwaner claimed “The cost of a by-election could be avoided if other groups decided not to put a candidate forward and allowed [previous local board candidate Mike] Turinsky to fill the vacancy unchallenged.”
“Ms Schwaner is evidently unaware how local politics work, if she thinks fewer candidates is the financial solution to the scandal she has created in the Botany sub-division,” said Johnson. “This boondoggle will cost over twice the salary of a Howick Local Board member, regardless of how many parties contest the vacant seat.”
Ms Schwaner had ample time after her election to the board, to establish how many votes she was likely to get in the vote for chair. She could have avoided the situation by vacating her seat before being sworn in, and allowing the next highest-placing candidate, Mike Turinsky, to take her place. Instead, she chose to trigger an expensive by-election.
The by-election, possibly costing $150,000, will allow the ratepayers to discuss and debate the functioning of the present Board and to elect another, more conciliatory candidate.
Mr Johnson looks forward to the by-election and bringing the positive Labour values of transparency, approachability and accountability to the Howick Local Board.
Some Choice News!
Many New Zealand gardens aren’t seeing as many monarch butterflies fluttering around their swan plants and flower beds these days — the hungry Asian paper wasp has been taking its toll.
Thanks to people like Alan Baldick, who’s made it his mission to protect the monarch, his neighbours still get to enjoy these beautiful butterflies in their own backyards.
Thinking about planting something to invite more butterflies, bees, and birds into your garden?
Thanks for your mahi, Alan! We hope this brings a smile!
Poll: Are our Kiwi summer holidays helping us recharge, or holding the economy back? ☀️🥝
There’s growing debate about whether New Zealand’s extended Christmas break (and the slowdown that comes with it) affects productivity.
Tracy Watkins has weighed in ... now it’s your turn. What’s your take? 🤔
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73.2% We work hard, we deserve a break!
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16.7% Hmm, maybe?
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10.1% Yes!
Ryman Village Open Days
Join us this Wednesday and explore our lifestyle, show homes and amenities.
More than just a place to live, Ryman villages are places where friendships grow, hobbies flourish and a genuine sense of community thrives.
The best way is to experience it for yourself. No appointment necessary!
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