Rookie Hastings district councillor Eileen Lawson says it's a myth that elected officials don't work hard. She chats to Mark Story.
What sparked your decision to put your hand up for election?
I have always been interested in local politics, which together with a love for our local community, people, and environment led me to putting my hand up. I also believe I have the right attributes to make a good councillor; a strong business background, good governance experience, being socially aware and having the time to dedicate to the role. With these attributes I believe I can add value by representing our community on council.
As a rookie councillor what's been the biggest surprise since your election?
I am not sure if I have had any big surprises but I do now have a greater appreciation of what's involved in making decisions. The process can at times be complex with implications that affect our community in many different ways. As councillors we represent the views of the wider community.
To you, what's the most positive development in Hastings in recent times?
The Sun Fruit Coolstore in Irongate is one; it is now operational and will be the biggest cool store facility in New Zealand, with 90 full time jobs created. I am also excited about what is proposed in the Long Term Plan, in particular the upgrade of the City Mall, new entertainment precinct, and Civic Square. Another positive development is the council's successful Youth Connector Programme which aims to assist our youth into employment through developing relationships with employers and by providing our youth with support, training and internships.
Are you in favour of retaining the existing Te Mata Peak walking track?
How to resolve the track situation is complex and therefore a yes or no answer is too simplistic. Council is considering all the information and working together with all stakeholders in order to find a satisfactory solution for all the community.
So far, what would you now say was the biggest myth about local body politics?
Some people believe that councillors don't work that hard, but in my short experience it seems to me that councillors genuinely want the best for their community and put in long hours to that end.
