Kellas proud to do his bit

Lox Kellas reflects on his 23 years as an Otago Peninsula Community Board member. PHOTO: PETER MCINTOSH

For Lox Kellas, being part of a community involves doing one’s bit without fuss.

"I think if you’re going to live in a community, you’ve got to do your bit — play your part," the former police officer and departing Otago Peninsula Community Board member said.

Mr Kellas served on the board for 23 years and chose not to seek re-election this year.

Yesterday, the Dunedin City Council acknowledged his service, as well as the contribution of other community board members who had decided to retire.

Mr Kellas said community boards were an essential tool in the community.

"It’s been enjoyable," he said.

"I did it because I think there was a need to serve the community."

Several councillors paid tribute, including Andrew Whiley, who said his advocacy for road safety infrastructure improvements and preparedness for civil defence emergencies had been of significant benefit to residents.

Dunedin Mayor Jules Radich said Mr Kellas was the epitome of a community cop with his finger on the pulse.

Edna Stevenson was stepping aside after 12 years on the peninsula community board.

A statement was read on her behalf, including her comment "the road to success is always under construction".

The longest-serving retiring board member was Barry Williams, of the Strath Taieri Community Board.

His service went back to 1989.

Cr Bill Acklin said a good portion of the 36 years was as board chairman and Mr Williams was devoted and dedicated.

Mr Radich said Mr Williams was a strong advocate for sealing State Highway 87, and the Middlemarch singles dance had put the town on the map.

Cr Kevin Gilbert noted the experience of the retiring Saddle Hill Community Board members — Scott Weatherall, Keith McFadyen and Christina McBratney — totalled 52 years.

Deputy mayor Cherry Lucas said Mosgiel-Taieri Community Board member Dean McAlwee was extremely well connected to his community.

Cr Jim O’Malley described Waikouaiti Coast Community Board member Mark Brown as sometimes "rough around the edges", but said he had used his life experience to good effect in the community.