Brendan Horan

I would like to extend my heartfelt thanks to everyone who took the time to vote in the recent Whakatāne District Council elections.

Your participation strengthens our local democracy and shows that you care about the future of our town.

To those who have been elected, congratulations. The trust placed in you carries with it a great responsibility. The role requires commitment, time, and a deep sense of service.

Prudent financial decisions now rest with you, and I urge all councillors to remember that many households in our community are struggling financially. Every dollar matters.

I especially thank those who supported me throughout the campaign.

Though I was not successful this time, I remain committed to contributing ideas and keeping important issues in the spotlight.

I will continue writing to the Beacon to help keep our community informed and engaged.

I hope the new council will consider some of the ideas I raised during the campaign, particularly the development of new revenue streams, such as a lifestyle retirement village, so that people in Whakatāne can live, work, and retire here with pride and confidence in our future.

Whakatāne is a town I care deeply about. Our strength lies in working together for the common good.