Mayor of Southland
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 Southland District Council mayoral election.
Mayor of Southland candidates
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Wendy Joy Baker
Why I'm standing
I truly care. Southland is a wonderful place and I love it. But there needs to be improvements with how the Southland District Council operates in many different ways. Rates need to be reduced and costs need to be cut. Core services need to be improved. Customer service needs to improve. Ratepayers need to see value for money and more transparency and accountability by SDC. Have a look at some costs listed on here: https://www.southlanddc.govt.nz/council/elections/candidate-information-requests-to-council/
About me
I have a council work background (over 7 years). I know what efficient reporting is like. Every month I had to do one. I know what it is like to care about ratepayers' needs and follow up efficiently on their concerns. I have implemented successful incentive projects which have benefited the ratepayers and other integral customers. I research and get facts. I truly care and want the best for customers. I listen and take action.
My priorities
- Reduce rates by cutting costs throughout each department of council.
- Show more formal respect for volunteers as formal volunteering is worth $6.4 billion to the NZ economy.
- Improve customer service and core services by caring about the customer and providing efficient core services.
Get across the policies, candidates and parties
Don’t know who to vote for? Policy.nz is the complete guide to the 2025 local elections. Compare the candidates and policies to see where you stand.
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