Since my inauguration in February 2003, I have been asked by many people, "What is it like, being a councillor?" Recently, a couple of people have e-mailed me, asking me to sum up what exactly a councillor does. These are really two different questions but as so many people have asked them in the same conversation, I will endeavour to answer both here.
The Palmerston North City Council consists of a Mayor and 15 Councillors. These positions are subject to election every three years. Occasionally, a Councillor resigns and a by-election takes place to fill the vacancy. The by-election is only held in the ward in which the vacancy occurs; it is not a city-wide election. This is how I was elected part way through the 2001-2004 term of council, in December, 2002. The next election date is 9 October 2004.
Once the Mayor and Councillors are confirmed by election they go through inauguration. They cannot take office until this has been done and they have signed a declaration stating:
I, (name), declare that I will faithfully and impartially, and according to the best of my skill and judgement, execute and perform, in the best interests of Palmerston North City, the powers, authorities, and duties vested in or imposed upon me as Mayor (or as a member) of the Palmerston North City Council by virtue of the Local Government Act 2002, the Local Government Official Information and Meetings Act 1987, or any other Act.
The inauguration is held as soon as possible after an election so the business of council can continue smoothly. In my case, I was elected on 20th December, 2002 and inaugurated on 3rd February, 2003.
Right, so now a Councillor has taken office - what next?
If you enjoyed this post, make sure you subscribe to my RSS feed!
