Media Release: Monday 21 July 2014

Horowhenua Mayor elected as LGNZ's new Vice President

Horowhenua Mayor Brendan Duffy has been voted the new Vice President of Local Government New Zealand (LGNZ) by members at their 2014 conference in Nelson at the weekend.

LGNZ is the sector voice for all 78 councils in the country, advocating on behalf of members and leading the sector’s commitment to improve practice and efficiency, enable economic growth, community vibrancy and environmental wellbeing.

LGNZ President Lawrence Yule, who was re-elected unopposed, welcomes Mayor Duffy as the new Vice President for the three-year term ahead.

“I look forward to working with Mr Duffy and I’m sure he will bring significant leadership to this position,” Mr Yule said.

Horowhenua District Council Chief Executive David Clapperton says he is delighted at Mayor Duffy's appointment, adding to his role as chair of the Provincial Sector of LGNZ.

"This is a fantastic achievement for Brendan, and a great opportunity for Horowhenua to have a continued voice in Wellington. I'm sure we all congratulate Brendan and look forward in supporting him while he performs his duties as LGNZ Vice President," Mr Clapperton said.

Deputy Mayor Garry Good says it is great news not only for Mayor Duffy, but also for Horowhenua.

"Brendan will have the full support of Horowhenua District Council and his profile will bring benefits to our community."

Councillor Tony Rush says Mayor Duffy's profile among his peers, other mayors and chairs is very evident.

"We can be proud that one of ours has such a high profile."

Councillor Wayne Bishop says this must signal that Horowhenua has a mayor who is not only respected within the district, but equally respected within local government circles nationwide.

"These positions are not filled by anyone pushing their own barrow, so well done again Brendan for obviously putting forward a sector-wide vision that will have wide reaching benefits."

Councillor Ross Brannigan says Mayor Duffy's appointment is very well deserved after many years of "unbending commitment" to the Horowhenua district and wider region.

Local government in New Zealand consists of 11 regional councils; 61 territorial authorities including 11 city councils and 50 district councils; as well as six unitary councils which are territorial authorities with regional council responsibilities.

The 78 councils have around 1600 elected members. The key elected members roles are mayors, regional council chairs, councillors, local board and community board members.

ENDS

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