Vincent Community Board member Sharleen Stirling-Lindsay, of Alexandra, was selected as chairwoman at the board’s first meeting this week. She was overseas representing New Zealand on the Neighbourhood Watch Australasia board, so could not be sworn in.
The first-term board member is the team leader of Alexandra Youth Base and the national chairwoman of Neighbourhood Watch. Before moving to Alexandra, she served two terms on the Rangiora Community Board, the last as chairwoman.
Mrs Stirling-Lindsay replaces Clair Higginson as chairwoman. Ms Higginson, who served three terms as a board member and Central Otago district councillor, did not seek re-election.
Dr Wills was appointed deputy chairman.
Appointments to community groups were delayed until the next meeting when Mrs Stirling-Lindsay will be present.
Raymond Gunn, a Coal Creek farmer, was elected chairman of the Teviot Valley Community Board for a second term. Deputy chairman Cliff Parker said Mr Gunn had done an "excellent job" during the last three years.
Sally Feinerman and John Pritchard are new to the board. They replace Russell Read, who was unsuccessful in his bid for a seat, and Jenna Stevens, who did not seek re-election.
The Cromwell Community Board will hold its first meeting on Monday and the Maniototo board on Thursday.