Viewpoint – Wellsford representation risk

I believe that together our communities are better and stronger. In our local area, more roads have been sealed this year than in the entire Auckland region combined! This remarkable result demonstrates the ability of our Local Board to work together with our councillor on improving our communities, and fostering connections among our people and towns. However, there’s a critical issue at hand – the proposed local board boundary changes. As a concerned member of our community, I want to shed light on the risks we face regarding our local representation. I want to share why I took an independent stand on this matter at our recent board meeting.

Wellsford and Warkworth – and I don’t mean just the towns but our combined rural communities from Puhoi in the south to Te Hana in the north – currently benefit from four representatives. But if Wellsford becomes part of a new North Rural ward, there is no longer a guarantee of a local being selected for Wellsford, and we risk losing half of our representation. Imagine going from four voices advocating for our interests to just two – a potential setback for both business and community outcomes. Would you vote for this?

The proposed changes could lead to representatives from further south, unfamiliar with Wellsford’s specific needs, being elected due to higher population numbers in the south. This lack of direct connection and understanding could indirectly impact Warkworth as well. Representation isn’t just about lines on a map – it’s about addressing the unique challenges faced by our interconnected communities.

Currently, the boundary defines Wellsford as closely tied to Warkworth. Economically, these two areas share resources and cost-saving measures, working together efficiently. Disrupting this synergy through boundary changes risks undermining the collaboration that benefits both communities.

Local knowledge is crucial for effective representation. Recent floods highlighted the importance of understanding the specific context and needs of rural communities. Having a representative who comprehends Wellsford’s unique challenges and advocates for its interests is essential. Our current model ensures that the voices of these communities are heard and addressed appropriately.

The existing structure amplifies our collective concerns. Losing this strong voice would be detrimental to shared interests. As a resident of a rural area, I’m acutely aware of our community’s needs. I’ll continue to advocate for robust representation, ensuring that rural voices aren’t lost in this debate.

As this issue heads toward consultation, I strongly support preserving the current model that is working for us and working well. Engaging with the community and voicing our opinions is crucial to finding a solution that benefits everyone involved.

Let’s work together to ensure our communities remain well-represented and supported.