Newly elected Western Bay of Plenty District Councillor Graeme Crossman has resigned citing unexpected business developments rendering it impossible to commit the necessary time and contribution required for the position.
Cr Crossman was elected as one of four councillors to the Maketu-Te Puke Ward with 1514 votes in the Local Body Elections on 12 October 2013. His resignation triggers an extra-ordinary vacancy and a by-election.
Cr Crossman said unavoidable commitments as a result of changed circumstances for his family tourism business and the need for considerable overseas travel meant he could not make a credible contribution to council.
Western Bay Mayor Ross Paterson said he fully understood the dilemma faced by Cr Crossman in view of his changed circumstances and it was far better to have made the decision to resign immediately rather than later in his term.
However Mr Paterson said he was looking forward to the contribution Cr Crossman's business, marketing and innovative skills would have brought to the new council team.
