Alexander (Sandy) Milne

Beacon local democracy reporter Diane McCarthy appears to have fired the starter’s gun for October’s Whakatāne District Council election.

I am pleased to see that Andrew Iles is challenging Victor Luca for the mayoralty; that gives us all a choice, and Mr Iles is well respected.  

However, he does lack the scientific background and financial leadership experience required of a mayor in these increasingly difficult times.

I read the comments of mayoral aspirant Nandor Tanczos with some bemusement.  

He gets no brownie points from me for his nine years in parliament.

I personally do not have a high regard for parliamentarians of any hue, having dealt with hundreds over the years.

I see that Toni Boynton is also considering challenging Dr Luca.  

I encourage her to do so; we need a woman in the race.

I hope that she announces her decision soon and follows Mr Tanczos’ example of standing for mayor, but not a councillor position.

Lastly, I am considering standing for council.  

I would be the oldest candidate in the land, but not the most doddery.  

I would promise to challenge every frivolous idea dreamed up by our numerous council managers, each of whom seems to earn as much as a Whakatāne Hospital medical specialist.

I would support Dr Luca and never claim credit for the hard work of others.

Alexander (Sandy) Milne