Tuesday 26 June 2018

Horizons Regional Council will be holding a by-election for the Palmerston North constituency following the passing of Councillor Pat Kelly over Queen’s Birthday weekend.

Horizons electoral officer Craig Grant explains that holding the by-election is a legislative requirement.

“Under Part 6, Section 117 of the Local Electoral Act 2001, if a vacancy occurs more than 12 months before the next triennial general election, the vacancy must be filled through an election.”

“The regional council serves communities from Ruapehu in the north and Horowhenua in the south, to Whanganui in the west and Tararua in the east. We are responsible for managing the region’s land, air and water resources, contracting passenger transport services, and play an important part in regional transport planning and road safety education. We also work to reduce the risk and impact of flooding and lead the planning for and response to emergencies to help keep people and properties safe.

“I strongly encourage members of our Palmerston North community with knowledge in environmental issues and a commitment to making our piece of New Zealand a great place to live, work and play to put their name forward as a candidate for our council.”

Candidate nominations open Thursday 28 June, and will close on Thursday 26 July, with voting papers sent to letterboxes from 30 August in time for the election day of Friday 21 September 2018.

“This is a chance for Palmerston North residents to vote who they want to represent them on council decisions over the next year,” says Mr Grant

Nomination forms are available online at www.horizons.govt.nz or to collect from Horizons Palmerston North office at 11-15 Victoria Avenue.

Further information regarding the by election, please contact Electoral officer Craig Grant on freephone 0508 800 800 or email elections@horizons.govt.nz

ENDS

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