Mayor of Nelson
The mayor is the leader of the council. Their job is to promote a vision for the city and lead the development of the council’s plans, policies and budget. The mayor appoints the deputy mayor, establishes committees for particular topics, and appoints chairs for those committees. This is a single transferable vote (STV) election, so you vote by ranking the candidates on your ballot paper. Compare the candidates and their policies to decide who to vote for in the Nelson City Council mayoral election.
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Nick Smith
Why I'm standing
I love Nelson but I am worried council has lost its way as shown by the record high dissatisfaction in residents surveys and recent council turmoil. I am offering 30 years of governance experience and knowledge of Nelson to provide positive new direction. My vision for Nelson is a vibrant, affordable city that is a great place to live, work, grow a business, raise a family and retire.
About me
My greatest motivator in politics has been the opportunity to help people and have assisted hundreds of Nelsonians in my 30 years as a local MP. I have a deep commitment to democratic decision making, freedom of speech and people being treated equally. I dislike the extremes of the hard left and hard right. I like reasoned and rational debate. My particularly passions are enterprise, science and the environment.
My priorities
- Rebuilding of Nelson's infrastructure and housing from August's devastating floods and landslides.
- Restoring confidence in council using my governance experience and strong community relationships.
- Constraining rates at a tough time for households, including stopping the $46 million library.
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