I think newly-elected Western Bay of Plenty District councillor Graeme Crossman's resignation due to business commitments shows he has a care factor of zero when it comes to wasting ratepayers' money.
His resignation, just 10 days after being elected, has forced a by-election in the Western Bay council's Maketu-Te Puke ward at a cost to ratepayers of a reported $28,700 plus GST - or $2.10 plus GST per elector.
While I'm glad Western Bay Mayor Ross Paterson and his council has had the sense to combine this by-election with that of filling the last seat on the Waihi Beach Community Board, Mr Crossman has still cost the district an unnecessary expense.
Now it's been announced he's heading to China this month to be a guest speaker at an Agricultural Fair.
Surely, he'd have known he'd possibly be going on this overseas jaunt before the local body elections closed?
Plus, other options do exist for councillors who need to take care of their own business or family interests – Graeme could have taken a six-month leave of absence.
He's also reported saying he was 'Blissfully unaware” of a 25-day councillor induction until after the election.
Well, this shows his willingness to learn about his new job.
This willy nilly wasting of ratepayers' money has to stop – especially by those elected to protect funds and spend them wisely on behalf of us all.
Maybe a law should be passed to fine candidates who pointlessly waste ratepayers and taxpayers' money when it comes to elections? I'm sure if their finances were threatened they make twice twice about wasting the collective's cash.
R Shaw, Te Puna.