Former deputy mayor Chris Staynes (72) was described by his colleagues yesterday as being influential in promoting economic development, Cr Doug Hall (75) was praised for his practicality and Cr Mike Lord (57) was held up as an example of a councillor able to adapt his thinking.
Cr Staynes was elected on to the council in 2007 and had three terms as deputy mayor from 2010, while the late Dave Cull was mayor.
Crs Hall and Lord were both elected in 2013.
Deputy mayor term Christine Garey said Cr Staynes was gracious, collegial and respected.
Mayor Aaron Hawkins said he had a calm presence.
Cr Staynes was influential in development of an economic development strategy from 2013 and in developing links with Shanghai as a sister city of Dunedin, colleagues recalled.
Cr Steve Walker said Cr Staynes had a kind nature and a strong intellect.
Cr Staynes said councillors had a duty not just to listen to people, but also to show leadership and make hard decisions.
He had observed growing disrespect from parts of the community to the council, as well as some conduct in the chamber that left a bit to be desired in the past term.
The city was progressing, he said.
Cr Lee Vandervis said Cr Hall was an exceptional businessman and a respected boss who was able to retain staff.
Several councillors commented Cr Hall was effective behind the scenes and knowledgeable about such things as recycling.
Cr Rachel Elder said he helped to bring about the planned development of a cycling trail between Mosgiel and Dunedin.
Cr Hall said it was a pleasure to work with council staff.
His jokes remained suspect, Cr Walker said.
Cr Garey said she enjoyed the way Cr Lord would frame an opposing point of view.
Cr Marie Laufiso said he was "straight up".
He chaired the council’s finance committee for six years.
Cr Lord called for a division on the vote of thanks for himself at yesterday’s meeting, resulting in each councillor having to state for the record their approval.
Cr Vandervis added to the humour of the moment by voting against, resulting in a 14-1 vote.
Retiring community board members Trevor Johnson, Francisca Griffin, Mandy Mayhem-Bullock, Joy Davis, Phillipa Bain, Graham McArthur, Leanne Stenhouse, Mark O’Neill, Blair Dale and Leann McLew also had their service acknowledged.
Mr Johnson was on the West Harbour Community Board and the Chalmers board before that for a combined 24 years.
