The Ōreti Community Board exists to engage with our community and to be our voice within the council. It is their duty to make decisions that reflect the best interests of our community and to represent the views of the people they serve. Unfortunately, it has become increasingly clear that some current members are not effectively representing the views of Winton’s community.

Due to dysfunction within the Board, Winton's best interests are not being served. This is a serious concern for all of us who care about the future of our community. We believe that the current situation cannot continue and that new leadership is required to ensure that Winton's needs are properly advocated for.

We are calling for the removal of the current Board members and the appointment of an interim board until the next election. We are pleased to share that former experienced Community Board Member, John (Chubb) McHugh, has agreed to step in on an interim position to support our community through this transition. We have asked Council if this is something that can legally occur and await a response. 

Additionally, the recent resignation of the Makarewa elected member has created the need for a by-election, which will incur significant costs for ratepayers. By pausing and installing an interim board, we can avoid these unnecessary costs to ratepayers and focus on stabilising the Board's leadership.

If you believe that Winton deserves better representation and you support the appointment of an interim board to steer us through this period, please add your signature to this petition.

Together, we can ensure that Winton’s interests are protected and that our community is represented by a Board that truly listens to and acts on our behalf.