Masterton mayoral candidate, Lyn Patterson, says she will wait until the results of the local body elections are known before naming a deputy.
Mayoral candidate Gary Caffell has nominated councillor David Holmes for deputy. Incumbent mayor Garry Daniell has not decided. The two-term Masterton councillor said she felt doing so before knowing the result "flies against the democratic process.
"The people of Masterton need to have their say. They will decide who will sit around the council table and it's not until that occurs will I be able to assess the skills and experience available," she said. "Masterton deserves the best choice, so it's my view that cannot occur until we know what councillors are elected."
She said she understands the drawcard of naming a deputy early. "It's common practice overseas and it benefits both the mayoral candidate and the potential deputy. Both play off the popularity of the other," said Mrs Patterson. She said her position is consistent with her pledge to offer strong leadership and unify council. "I will be going into this with an open mind. As mayor I will give Masterton the change it needs and bring our council together."
"That means I will not rule out asking one of my opponents, or their choice of deputy, to be my deputy. Ultimately, it is what is best for Masterton that will influence my choice."
Deputy won't be named yet
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