Mayor of Whakatāne
The mayor is the leader of the council. Their job is to promote a vision for the district 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 first past the post (FPP) election, so you vote by ticking the name of your preferred candidate on your ballot paper. Compare the candidates and their policies to decide who to vote for in the Whakatāne District Council mayoral election.
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Jacquelyn Elkington
Why I'm standing
I am able to provide strong leadership for the first-time council of three general wards and the inclusion of three Māori wards. Cultural pride will increase while maintaining an autonomous identity. There will be many new ideas at the table. An innovative space must be created without censorship. Intuition must be bought forward to support science and facts, but only alongside the lived experience. People will matter over profits as we forge new ways forward.
About me
My background in tertiary adult education has prepared me well for working with people toward achieving goals, aspirations, and transformative practice. I am a qualified narrative therapist so I listen for solutions while hearing the problem. I look for strengths while seeing weaknesses. Approachability is key. However, mayor is merely facilitating the people's voice as it is informed by many sources, views, and perspectives.
My priorities
- Abolish rates. Councils need to push the central government for more fair distribution of our taxes.
- Investigate the Covid-19 Public Health Response Act for relevance. Provide a risk/benefit analysis.
- Grow cultural pride. We will see an enhanced dynamic of three Māori wards and three general wards. Exciting!
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