Local Government elections are held every three years, with the 2010 election set to be held on Saturday 9 October.
Electoral Officer Clare Sullivan says anyone wishing to stand as a candidate for the Council must be a New Zealand citizen, aged over 18 and enrolled on the parliamentary electoral roll.
People have the option of being nominated to become a community board member, a councillor or the city’s Mayor. There are a total of 54 positions available in the Council election.
“We need a range of people of different ages, ethnicities and backgrounds to ensure our community is well represented. Standing for election doesn’t require any particular qualifications or experience. Elected members come from all walks of life and have a strong desire to serve the community,” Ms Sullivan says.
Anyone wishing to be stand in the 2010 Council election must be nominated by two people, both of whom must be over 18 years old and enrolled to vote in the area their nominee wishes to stand in. Nominees must also pay a $200 deposit. Nomination forms will be available from tomorrow at the Civic Offices in Tuam St; Council service centres or online at www.ccc.govt.nz/elections
For more information about standing for election, see www.lgnz.co.nz; www.ccc.govt.nz/elections or contact Electoral Officer Clare Sullivan on 941 8533.
Voting papers for this year’s Council election will be sent out from 17 September and should be returned in the freepost envelope provided by Wednesday 6 October. Voting closes at 12 noon on Saturday 9 October.
