New Plymouth’s New Mayor Honors Late Leader with Fund Renaming

Incoming mayor of New Plymouth, Max Brough, has announced a significant tribute to his predecessor, the late David Lean, by renaming the district’s mayoral relief fund in Lean’s honor. Brough is set to be sworn in on October 31, 2023, and made the announcement during a gathering of councillors and dignitaries at the Civic Centre.

David Lean, affectionately known as “Daisy,” served as the mayor of New Plymouth from 1980 to 1992. He passed away in June at the age of 76. In a heartfelt statement, Brough expressed the importance of recognizing Lean’s contributions, stating, “This is quite a big moment for me because earlier this year, after the passing of Lean, a four-term mayor of this council, there was a number of us hoping to make something meaningful to what he gave to the city.”

With the blessing of Lean’s family, Brough aims to enhance the mayoral relief fund, which currently receives an annual contribution of $5,000 from the council. Brough expressed a desire to significantly increase this amount through public donations, highlighting the growing need for assistance in the community. “People are in hardship, and they need help, and one of the things on my desk was requests for relief,” he noted.

Brough further emphasized the urgency of the situation, indicating that requests for aid are increasing rapidly. “They [requests] are coming thicker and faster and I don’t think that is going to change any time soon. Every cent of that money that is donated to council for this purpose will go to people in need.”

Lean’s widow, Janet Lean, expressed her family’s gratitude for the tribute. Reflecting on her late husband’s background, she shared, “When I first met Daisy, he was a social worker, he wasn’t a politician. So I think, well I know, he always had a caring heart and he loved New Plymouth and was very passionate about Taranaki and its environment. So to have something to put his name to is meaningful.”

This initiative not only honors David Lean’s legacy but also aims to provide crucial support to those facing difficulties in New Plymouth. Brough’s actions signal a commitment to community welfare, ensuring that Lean’s spirit of service continues to resonate within the district.