Phil Mauger Welcomes David Meates As A Contender In The Christchurch Mayoral Race

“I’m pleased that David Meates has finally made the decision to run for Mayor. It’s good that people will have another contender – that is what democracy is all about,” says Phil Mauger.

“The most important thing is that people vote and that whoever is elected has a clear mandate from our ratepayers.

“David has no local government experience and, given the challenges we face right now, there is no substitute for local body experience and a history of active involvement in the issues we face. He has been working overseas for a while and I understand he is still overseas.

“Christchurch’s rebuild still has a way to go, and we need to maintain our close and respectful working relationship with central government to ensure the best possible outcomes. It’s my understanding that under David’s leadership of the Canterbury District Health Board, his relationship with central government was strained at best.

“If elected Mayor I will bring a fresh style and a no-nonsense, can-do attitude to the Council table, which means stuff will get done. As Mayor it will be my job to bring Councillors from both sides of the political spectrum together to make decision that are best for our city and Banks Peninsula.

“After three years on Council, I have got the message, loudly and clearly, from residents that we need to get the basics right. One of my main goals will be regaining peoples’ trust in Council.

“Christchurch is poised for a great future. We must be open to innovative thinking and trying new things. We have some challenges ahead, such as the funding for the Stadium, fixing the wastewater treatment plant, three-waters reform, and the review of local government. We need common sense and practical leadership to ensure we make the right decisions for Christchurch and the Banks Peninsula.

“People from all walks of life are supporting my campaign – people just want to see stuff get done and don’t want more of the same.

“We clearly cannot keep doing the same things. We need to lift our ratepayer’s confidence that Council will make the right decisions for the city and Banks Peninsula.