Viewpoint – Rodney rollercoaster ride

As a newly elected member of the Rodney Local Board, representing the Northern Rodney Subdivision, I have spent recent weeks getting to know what the role is all about. From the stress of the election campaign, and not knowing whether you have done enough to cross the finish line, to the absolute relief of getting the phone call, “you’re in”, it has been an unbelievable rollercoaster ride. It was emotional, mixed with the humility of meeting so many grounded, friendly, welcoming residents of the wider Rodney district. Then came the realisation that I was on the board, and I must represent my community, as well as the whole of the Rodney district, along with my fellow elected members.

We all think we know what council is. We all have aspirations as to what we would like to achieve, as well as the interactions with the rest of council and the expectations of the public. Then you start to realise this is more complex than first anticipated and it’s a long game with some possible short, small wins along the way. Ultimately, it’s about collaboration.

The ability to work with your fellow board members and staff is essential, while also trying to deliver your communities’ and residents’ desires and aspirations. There is a life balance that means you have to juggle existing employment, fit this part time board role and meet family life commitments. There are local board meetings, workshops, training courses and community meetings to attend, and there is a constant flow of emails. I fit my work in and then my understanding family scrag the time that’s left. I am told this will level out once the training subsides.

I look forward to the challenges and believe we have a very balanced and workable board. It would have been good to have had more female representation and possibly some younger members representing the youth of Rodney, but for this to happen they have to stand and be elected, so possibly some future possibilities there.

I stand by my campaign and what I said – I want to engage with our communities and empower them to meet and decide what is important to them, and identify what they need. I will listen and happily assist in supporting communities to be connected, grow, develop and be resilient.

I look forward to getting out and meeting the various groups across the district and thank you for your support to date. If you see me out and about, say “hello”. I hope you all have a safe lead up to the Christmas and a happy break.