The Otago Regional Council (ORC) is putting out its ‘final call’ for candidates wanting to stand for the council in this year’s local government elections.

Nominations will close at noon on Friday (August 12) and ORC electoral officer Anthony Morton is urging those interested in standing to get their nominations in as soon as possible.

“We’re expecting a busy last week, so we’d like those intending to stand to submit their nominations as soon as possible to allow time to check the paperwork and correct any problems found,” Anthony said.

As of yesterday (Monday August 8) the ORC had received six nominations: Malcolm Budd, Gretchen Robertson, Bill Southworth, Alexa Forbes, Kevin Malcolm and Lloyd McCall. 

“You can do so much for your community by standing for election to local government,” ORC interim chief executive Dr Pim Borren said. 

“If you are passionate about our environment and how we leave the beautiful Otago region for future generations, climate change, public transport as well as important responsibilities around hazard management, emergency management, and flood management, then this might be the governance role for you.”

There are 12 councillors in total with six to be elected to the Dunedin constituency, three for Dunstan, two for Molyneux and one for Moeraki.

Regional council candidates will be announced on August 17.

See ORC’s candidate handbook and pre-election report, available online for more information.