Voting papers low
We are now over half way through the voting period for the local government elections, and voting papers are still making their way in, but slowly.
At end of business on Wednesday 2 September 3,166 papers had been received by Council.
"So far we have processed 821 papers from the Putaruru Ward, 291 from the Tirau Ward and 2,054 from the Tokoroa Ward" said Council's Electoral Officer, Richard Fisk.
In terms of percentages of eligible votes this equates to:
- Putaruru - 19.88% (total registered voters is 1,419)
- Tirau - 20.5% (total registered voters is 4,129)
- Tokoroa - 22.26% (total registered voters is 9,226)
That means that out of a total 14,774 voters only 22.06% have filled out and returned their voting papers.
"Last triennium, around 39% of the eligible voters in the South Waikato District voted in the Local Government elections," said Richard. "We were hoping this time around we would have more interest from the community but it feels as though it is shaping up to be much the same."
Voting papers must be received by midday Saturday 12 October, so there is still time for those who haven't voted to do so.
If you have not received any voting papers, you will still be entitled to a Special Vote - contact the Electoral Officer, Richard Fisk, on phone 885 0723 as soon as possible, and definitely before 12 October, when voting closes.
Voting in the local government elections is the best way the community can have their say in what goes on in their Council. So come on South Waikato, cast your vote.
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