Farmer and rural consultant Lloyd McCall, of Tapanui, will join incumbent John Herbert as the second of two West Otago ward representatives on the Clutha District Council, after winning a by-election for the seat yesterday.
Mr McCall defeated fellow candidate and Tapanui resident Gabrielle Mills in the by-election, which was triggered
by the resignation in December of long-standing councillor Michelle Kennedy, also of Tapanui.
Mr McCall received 369 votes to Mrs Mills’ 205, on a voter turn-out of just over 35%.
Yesterday afternoon, Mr McCall said he was delighted to have won, although his enthusiasm and energy were somewhat tempered by a slow recovery from the flu this week.
"I’m honoured to have gained the support of local people to represent them at council, and I’d also like to congratulate Gabrielle on her efforts during the election, and within the community more generally.
"I’m sure we’ll continue to work together to improve our district in whatever ways we can."
Mr McCall is no stranger to governance, having been a key figure in establishing and developing the award-winning, farmer-led Pomahaka Water Care Group, whose 160 members continue to explore and innovate methods for improving freshwater quality in the catchment.
He also campaigned unsuccessfully for the Molyneux ward of the Otago Regional Council, in 2019.
He said following a period of orientation, he would focus on promoting community engagement with the council’s upcoming long-term plan process.
"I need to get up to speed first, then my next target is to try and get community involvement in the long-term plan consultation.
"I see this as the real challenge before council, both communicating to ratepayers what the plan is and why it’s important to them; and seeking feedback on the plan from as many of them as possible, as effectively as possible.
"I’m delighted to be elected, and I hope to do my best for the community," Mr McCall said.
