Scott Gilmore Elected Tararua Mayor, Promises New Direction

Scott Gilmore has been elected as the new mayor of Tararua, defeating three-term incumbent Tracey Collis. In the preliminary results, Gilmore received 2,828 votes, while Collis garnered 2,365 votes. This change in leadership signals a shift in the district’s approach to governance and community engagement.

In an interview with the Manawatū Standard, Gilmore expressed his respect for Collis, acknowledging her dedication to the district. “I was surprised, absolutely elated, because it just means we can get on and do the things we were talking about,” he stated. Gilmore, who previously served as a one-term councillor and has a background in banking and charity work, is prepared to devote himself fully to the role of mayor.

Priorities and Plans for the New Administration

One of Gilmore’s primary objectives is to recruit a new chief executive for the council. Currently, Malcolm Alexander is serving as the interim chief executive following the departure of Bryan Nicholson in August to pursue opportunities in Australia. Additionally, Gilmore is focused on the transition to the new Local Water Done Well system, a collaborative effort with the three Wairarapa councils to manage water infrastructure in the region.

“It’s important to finalize how the new entity will function and ensure that the district’s needs are met through the stakeholders group,” Gilmore explained. He intends to review ongoing projects from the previous council and ensure that the annual plan reflects the community’s feedback collected during the election process. Key aspects of this plan will include financial oversight and effective community engagement.

The newly elected council will include four new councillors, as former members Alison Franklin and Kerry Sutherland opted not to run again. In the North ward, Steve Wallace, Erana Peeti-Webber, and Sharon Wards retained their positions, while Alison Amboy joins as a new councillor. The South ward welcomes new faces, including Elisabeth Kennedy, Peter Naylor, and Chris Corlett, alongside returning councillor Peter Johns. Notably, newcomer Keshaan Te Waaka unseated Naioma Chase in the Tāmaki-nui-a-Rua Māori ward.

Challenges Ahead for the New Leadership

Gilmore acknowledges that his administration will face significant challenges, particularly concerning the affordability of services. He emphasized that the current level of rate increases is unsustainable for the community. “We have to work really hard to make our dollars go further and to be smarter with what we’re delivering and how we’re delivering it,” he remarked.

A key aspect of Gilmore’s vision is to enhance the connection between the council and the community. He plans to engage residents early in the decision-making process and increase the number of open meetings throughout the district. This approach aims to foster transparency and trust, allowing residents to understand the council’s actions and objectives.

Looking ahead, Gilmore noted the potential impact of government reforms, emphasizing the necessity of advocacy to ensure the district’s interests are represented. “There are huge opportunities with the opening of the new Te Ahu a Turanga Manawatū-Tararua Highway, which unlocks potential within our district,” he stated. He believes that the highway will make Tararua more accessible to visitors, enhancing its appeal as a destination.

In a related development, a recent referendum concerning the Māori wards saw 3,517 votes cast in favor of removing the Māori ward for the years 2028 and 2031, while 2,957 votes were in support of retaining it.

As Gilmore embarks on his new role, his commitment to a fresh direction for Tararua will be closely watched by residents eager for change.