A candidate information handbook and pre-election report is available via the Clutha District Council website but the basic requirements include being over 18 and enrolled to vote, and payment of a $200 nomination fee.
Nomination forms can be completed online, and traditional paper forms are available to collect and submit at council offices, libraries and I-sites.
The council advertised for candidates in The Clutha Leader and Otago Daily Times three time since June, and a video of the candidates’ information evening held in Balclutha on Wednesday, July 9 can be viewed on the council’s YouTube channel.
Its election processes underwent review last year, resulting in the number of councillors being reduced from 14 to nine.
Councils are paid by the Remuneration Authority, which provide a pool which is shared among the elected members, which implies a higher pay rate for fewer councillors and potential to pay a more sustainable income.
The authority has set a pool of $420,000 for the new council — excluding the mayor — but its breakdown for councillors is a decision for the new council to make once elected.
The council’s candidate report up to July 21 lists just two names, including deputy mayor Ken Payne who is nominated for mayor.
A national "Rates Dashboard" released by the New Zealand Taxpayers Union shows rates have increased by 16.59% in the past year, and 39.85% over the past three years.
