Councillor's Comment: Change is coming

It’s not what you say but what you do that can make a fundamental difference in the face of change, writes Councillor Pete Rainey.

Serving as a councillor is one of the most rewarding things anyone can do.

That so many of my fellow councillors have announced they are stepping down speaks volumes regarding the challenges we are currently facing. 

This doesn’t come as a surprise, as we have all faced huge changes.

The pandemic, climate change and its effects, war in Europe, and soaring inflation and the impact it has on the cost of living, all have a material effect on the wellbeing of the population at large.

Local government is no exception. Coupled with all these factors, elected members and staff are facing dramatic change in the way our water infrastructure is managed and how resource management is undertaken, topped off by a review of local government itself.

It’s fundamental to good governance of this city that we strive to reach decisions in a safe and collegial environment. When that doesn’t happen, the mental health and wellbeing of the people we elect to govern our city takes a hit.

Changes are coming to our council table. All those standing for Council and the Mayoralty should reflect on this and keep this issue paramount in their minds.
It’s not what you say but what you do that can make a fundamental difference in this regard.