Meanwhile, Otago Regional Council has functions around hazards, public transport, biosecurity, biodiversity, water and air quality.
Our newly elected councils provide a huge range of services.
There is always a tension of investment in things like wastewater pipes and not wanting to increase rates.
So good on all those people who put up their hand for election for our councils — it’s a brave thing to do and there were a lot of hands.
As the MP for Dunedin, I work with both councils on issues that I can help with and vice versa, they help me where they can with issues affecting constituents.
The Dunedin Hospital campaign has been a big part of our recent collaboration and I’m sure the new council will keep up the campaign.
The redevelopment of our theatres (after some fundraising) is something I hear a lot of support for, as well as more place-based hubs like the Brockville Community Connect.
These are of course just a small selection of things that will need addressing.
I want to congratulate our new mayor, as well as the newly elected councillors across both councils.
I look forward to meeting with you all soon and working alongside you over the coming months.
I also want to thank those who previously served on these councils but did not get re-elected.
Your hard work and advocacy for our city is appreciated by many.
