Jane Nees BOP Regional Councillor www.janenees.co.nz

It's that time again – local body elections are coming up and nominations are being sought for candidates for the various councils throughout the country.

During their three year term, elected officials, as a collective, make very important decisions which shape the future of an area and its community. These decisions will include setting broad strategic directions, approving expenditure levels, and making hard calls on important projects, actions and funding streams. During this time, a large number of issues will arise and the operating environment is likely to change due to external circumstances. Electing people on their stance on a single issue alone is very short-sighted and risky for the community as a whole, because people in elected office need to be capable of dealing with a wide range of issues and making carefully considered rational decisions based on the relevant information.

My list of must-haves for effective elected members includes: a good understanding of the community and the issues important to them; a strong work ethic and a strong sense of responsibility to constituents; a critical thinker with an open mind, intelligence and the ability to assimilate and evaluate large amounts of information (including financial information); a strategic approach, with long term vision, an appreciation of the global picture and the ability to apply it to local and regional initiatives; a track record of success, including sound decision-making; an understanding of the difference between management and governance; good interpersonal skills and the ability to work as part of a team; a good communicator – including being a good listener; a collaborative, flexible, solution-focused approach; and most importantly, integrity and honesty.

There are many other important attributes, of course. These may include views on particular issues of importance to the community. I encourage you to think carefully about the sort of person you want to represent you going forward. And, to make sure you vote, because your representatives will be shaping your future during the next three years.

If you have any views on this or any other issue, please contact me on: neesj@xtra.co.nz or ring me on 07 579 5150. Or you can check out my website at: www.janenees.co.nz