In respect to R Paterson's letter (Sun 14 Sept) could I remind the correspondent that Mr Town was employed as the CEO, prior to my election to Council and that his remuneration package would have been agreed to at the time of his employment. Also KPI's would also have been set along with the ability to review his performance, on a regular basis, with each councillor only having one vote out of 11.
Mr Paterson, I have written letters to the papers for over 20 years and contrary to what you may say or think I have no motive or agenda other than a keen desire to make sure that issues are actually discussed.
The reason why I am in particular concerned over the appointment of an interim, and also part-time CEO, is that the former CEO commenced a review of Council that requires to be completed as it could result in considerable saving to ratepayers.
This city also faces many other challenges such as massive debt issues. growth pressures, infrastructure concerns along with possible amalgamation talks (strongly supported by the current Mayor) which should be addressed by a CEO who is 100% committed to this city rather than one who has been appointed just as an interim CEO on a part-time basis. Besides being the interim CEO Mr Auton also runs his own consultancy firm along with being on at least 3 other boards, out of Tauranga, so what is his real commitment to the future prospects of this city?

Mike Baker, Bethlehem.