02 July 2009

Evans left no choice

“If we could have avoided a by-election and the associated cost then be assured we would be taking that option,” Kapiti Coast District Council’s chief executive Pat Dougherty said today.

“The legal advice we have received is quite specific. Mr Evans’ resignation became effective on the day he submitted it (June 15) and the Courts generally interpret electoral law narrowly and tend to require close attention to the performance of electoral obligations.

“I therefore had no ability to accept the withdrawal of Mr Evans’ resignation. The electoral officer has been advised that a vacancy has occurred and the election process is now underway.

Community Board chair John Haxton said it was unfortunate Mr Evans did not discuss his plans with the board or the chief executive before he tendered his resignation.

“If he had done so then he could have been advised what the cost of a by-election would be and that if he had waited until October a by-election could have been avoided altogether.

“There are no ifs, buts or maybes,” Mr Haxton said. “The vacancy must be filled. And there was no choice about accepting the resignation once it was delivered to the chief executive.

“Through his actions and the timing of them Mr Evans has condemned the ratepayers to paying whatever it costs to hold a by-election,” Mr Haxton said.

“I hope candidates of real merit who have the best interests of the Paraparaumu-Raumati community at heart take the chance to stand,” he said.

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