Three-term councillor and current deputy mayor Ken Payne announced he would run in the October elections, promising to tackle the "huge" issues facing the district.
The 63-year-old former shearer and wool trader, who has been a Telford farm institute tutor for the past 20 years, identified those issues as "water, debt and communications".
"Central government has abandoned us, and all councils, at present, leaving us on a train-wreck path to meet water standards.
"Councillors have been left with a difficult obligation to navigate mandates as best they can. Unfortunately, they cannot be ignored, and ‘no’ is not an answer that central government accepts.
"[But] we must continue to challenge Wellington, rattle the cages and continue to ensure that Clutha thrives."
Balclutha born and bred, he said the council had made steps in the right direction during the past decade, encouraging more young people to establish adult lives in the district.
"There are still challenges we face as a district, but both my boys have established themselves here and it remains a great place to live and work.
"I’m genuinely passionate about the district and the people who live here and I want to continue to work to improve it for all."
Wife Anneta, a principal, was right behind him, although his sons had joked with him on hearing his plans for office, he said.
"[My sons] think I’m nuts, but for me it’s not a question of ‘why would you?’ but ‘why wouldn’t you?’.
"I’m standing for mayor because I believe I have the tools, the skillset and the common sense thinking that can carry us through a very challenging time and out the other side successfully."
He acknowledged criticism regarding some of the council’s recent projects, but believed most issues could be addressed through better communication.
"Focusing on the past takes away the energy needed for moving forward.
"My promise to the community will be to keep it simple and communicate so future decisions are clear and understandable for everyone.
"Water continues to sit on top of the priorities list, along with managing debt. Neither of these are easy issues but finding the best options and balancing the books is critical. In the current climate, it’s time to steady the ship, consolidate what we have and concentrate on making the right decisions for the future."
