The Ohakune Ratepayers and Residents' Society (ORS) is calling on passionate and concerned citizens to step forward and consider standing in next year's local election for the Ruapehu District Council (RDC). Whether you aspire to be a councillor or aim for the mayoral seat, your community needs you now more than ever.
RDC Problem
In recent years, ORS has witnessed a troubling pattern of mismanagement, overspending, and a stark lack of transparency within the RDC. These concerns are not just theoretical—they have real and tangible impacts on the residents and ratepayers of our district. The dismissive behavior displayed by the RDC towards community input and concerns only deepens the divide between the council and those it is meant to serve. This troubling trend has directly contradicted the promises on which Mayor Weston Kirton was elected. Accountability and transparency have only worsened under his leadership, further eroding the trust of the community. Despite his commitment to
"rebuild trust by resetting how the council communicated with the community and re-establish council committees to drive accountability and transparency," the reality has been the opposite.
Transparency & Accountability
One of the most pressing issues was the now-cancelled Teitei project. Despite repeated requests, the council has consistently refused to release crucial information to the public regarding the costs associated with the project. This ongoing lack of transparency has only fueled suspicion and frustration among residents. ORS believes it is time for accountability. One of our members is considering running in the upcoming election, determined to gain an insider's perspective on the project's handling and to ensure that any actions taken by the council are within the legal and ethical boundaries expected of our elected officials. The council's refusal to admit any fault or acknowledge the public's concerns underscores the need for a change in leadership.
Three Waters (Risky Bet)
Another significant issue is the handling of the Three Waters reform. The council was well aware of the high possibility that the debt incurred would not be fully repaid by the central government. Despite this, they chose to proceed with large expenditures, effectively hedging a risky bet that central government would eventually cover the bill. Instead of prioritizing essential services and infrastructure, the council decided to spend on numerous wants, over-capitalizing in the process. This reckless approach has placed an unnecessary financial burden on the district, with the expectation that the debt would be covered now proving to be a gamble that may not pay off. This kind of financial mismanagement is precisely why a change in leadership is urgently needed.
Clive Manley needs to go
It's time for a leadership change at the top as well. CEO Clive Manley has been with our council for too long, and his tenure has been marked by financial mismanagement and a dismissive attitude toward the public. His ideological approach, lacking solid financial backing, has repeatedly led our district into financial troubles. Unfortunately, Clive has proven to be a skilled salesman, often using confusion and rambling tactics to sway important votes in his favor, even when they initially weren't going his way. This has not only misled residents but also councillors, undermining the integrity of our decision-making process. It’s clear that Clive needs to retire, or the next council must prioritize finding a replacement who can lead with transparency, accountability, and a genuine commitment to the community’s best interests.
During the Three Waters reform and at various points over the last few years, many residents have urged the council to be more prudent with spending. However, CEO Clive Manley has consistently pushed the notion that debt is not a bad thing, often disregarding calls for fiscal responsibility. A classic example of this mindset was Clive's statement during the Three Waters discussions: "We used to think debt is a bad thing" This attitude has led the council to take on unnecessary financial risks, further straining the district's resources. Clive's approach to debt and spending has been a recurring issue, contributing to the ongoing financial troubles that our community now faces.
Take a Stand: Run for Council and Restore Accountability
If you believe that the actions of the RDC should be held to a higher standard, and if you are ready to fight for the interests of your community, we encourage you to consider running for council. This is your chance to make a difference, to bring accountability back to our local government, and to ensure that the voices of Ohakune residents are heard and respected.
For those interested in taking this important step, please reach out to us at service@ors.nz. Together, we can work towards a better, more transparent future for the Ruapehu District.
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