Otago Regional Council
The Otago Regional Council makes decisions about managing resources in the region, such as air, water, soil and the coastline. It also carries out plant and pest control, helps prepare for natural disasters, and is involved in regional transport. The council is made up of 12 councillors. Councillors are elected to represent constituencies (areas in the region). five councillors will be elected from the Dunedin constituency. 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 Otago Regional Council election.
Otago Regional Council candidates
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Alan Somerville
Why I'm standing
Otago has a beautiful environment and it's vital that we look after it for people now and for future generations. I will apply long term thinking and stand up for the principles of ecological wisdom and social justice.
About me
I bring skills and experience in working constructively with a wide variety of people and in reaching agreement that leads to action. This comes from twenty years in the Playcentre movement, in my role as an early childhood teacher, and as chair of community housing provider Abbeyfield Dunedin. Three years on council has given me a good understanding of local government processes and how the council can work with communities and community groups.
My priorities
- Improve freshwater and air quality to make Otago a healthier place to live and make a living.
- Keep communities safe by being well prepared for extreme weather and other natural hazards.
- Improve public and active transport networks to make good options available to everyone.
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