The new Ashburton District Council has been sworn in, for what the mayor says will be a challenging term.
In his opening address, Ashburton Mayor Neil Brown said “this is a council that is going to face some challenges in the next three years”.
“Whether it be around government reforms such as the RMA reform, the future for local government review, or the famous Three Waters reform which we, as a council, do not support in its current form”.
He said rampant inflation will also factor highly, as it is putting extreme pressure on the current and future budgets.
There are some big projects on the books including Methven’s water upgrades, lobbying the Government for funding for the second bridge in Ashburton, and getting the new Library and Civic Centre completed next year “as close to the budget as possible”.
“These projects will help transform this community for the better for generations to come, and it is imperative we keep the momentum going on these projects.”
He also said increasing engagement remains a key focus after only 50 per cent of the eligible population voted, which was high compared to the rest of the country “but isn’t good enough”.
“We can only hear the voices that speak to us.”
All the councillors are approachable on any issue or concerns, he said, “or on a good day on what we are actually doing right”.
The first meeting was primarily ceremonial, with most of the elected councillors and Methven Community Board members being sworn in to office.
With his re-election and five returning councillors, Brown said it showed the community wanted “stability in the district”.
Brown officially announced Liz McMillan retaining her role as deputy mayor.
“I know it’s a role she excels in, and I look forward to working with her.”
The councillors all come from different areas and were elected from wards, but Brown intends to lead them as a united team for the whole community.
“We are here to do the best for everyone in the Ashburton District.
“I think we have the right team to do just that.”
Leen Braam was unable to attend on Thursday and will be sworn in at the December 8 meeting, while Methven Community Board member Allan Lock will be sworn in at the board’s inaugural meeting on Monday.

• By Jonathan Leask