J Beattie

Catrina Jones, Beacon letters April 1, reckons Whakatāne District Council should ask Phillip Jacobs for advice on bringing down the rates.

We already know what he would do – ditch the Matata sewerage scheme, close the library and swimming pool, fire the gardeners and cut spending on everything that makes this place lovely.

The people of Whakatāne had a chance to vote for that and they rejected it. Why would the council follow the lead of someone who got one third of the vote of the guy we elected mayor?

Our new mayor is doing an awesome job. He writes articles in the Beacon that talk about what council is doing, instead of lecturing us about whatever takes his fancy. He is on social media answering questions, and he’s out and about in the community.

His videos during the storm warnings were spot on, with regular updates to keep us informed. He’s getting on top of council spending, and he seems to have the support of the other councillors.

I’m very happy with the mayor we voted for, thanks.