John announces mayoral candidacy | Taranaki News | Local News in Taranaki

Stratford District Council Deputy Mayor John Edwards has thrown his hat into the election ring by announcing he will stand for mayor at the coming elections.

Stratford district residents were left wondering who would be mayor after current mayor, Brian Jeffares, announced at the start of 2007 he would not be seeking re-election. Although nominations are not called for until July and the election date is set for October 13, John said he felt that it was important for the community to know as soon as possible that he would be standing for mayor.

"I have been deputy mayor for the past nine years and feel I have served my apprenticeship. I am ready to offer my service to the community for the next three years at least."

John said the decision came after much discussion and debate with his wife, Noeline.

"I have 100% support and encouragement from Noeline and full support from our larger family."

John said he has no plans for changes if he is elected as he believes Brian is doing an excellent job as mayor.

"I have worked closely with Brian for many years and we complement each other in many aspects. I admire what he has done for the community. I thoroughly enjoy local government work. I have the time and energy and I'm very well equipped for the job, having served nine years to a man I consider a role model."

Although John admits that whoever replaces Brian will have subtle differences, as each person is an individual, he said all mayoral candidates must remain focused on the community and at the end of the day it is the community who will be the judge.

This election will have just two wards for the first time - urban and rural, and John said he is keen to oversee the new concept take shape at election time.

"The urban area has not changed, but by creating one rural ward instead of three allows the rural community to unite more and have a greater voice. It is important for the community that the two wards work well and mesh together because that's what happens on a daily basis."

John Edwards was born in Eltham and went to Eltham Primary School before his secondary education at Stratford Technical High School. John now is a semi-retired sheep and beef farmer in Toko and said he has been a Stratford ratepayer for the past 41 years.

"I love Stratford and our friendly community."