A holiday park owner says he’s not a “career politician” and won’t be running for Mayor of Thames-Coromandel District Council just to serve an ego.
Ron Julian is one of the seven candidates vying for the district’s top job come the local body elections on October 8.
Others standing for the top job include: Eric Carter, John Freer, Len Salt, Peter Pinkham, Cherie Staples, and Steve Hart.
Over in Hauraki, incumbent Mayor Toby Adams has been re-elected unopposed.
Ron Julian told The Profile he had a professional background in strategic asset and project management, primarily in the construction industry.
However, for the past 20 years, his career path has taken him towards running camping grounds on either side of the Coromandel Peninsula.
“[As] a successful business owner on both sides of the peninsula, and a trained project manager, I have the experience needed to know what needs to be done and how to deliver it to ensure our region can grow and thrive in an environmentally sustainable way,” he said.
“I’m not a career politician or running to serve an ego. I’m here to support the voter and ratepayer with respect and equity to live a better life in this beautiful region.”
Ron has two daughters, two sons, and eight grandchildren, and his interests outside of politics include classic American cars, boating, fishing, travelling, architecture, sports such as rugby and motor racing, and enjoying time with family and friends.
A self-described “right-wing greenie”, he said he has a balanced pro-environment psyche which supported a culture of “responsibility, recycling and sustainability”.
“TCDC deserves smart, strategic leadership. A mayor with strong business experience, practical know-how, and common-sense decision-making competence.
“I am less about changing and more about focusing on what’s important, good solutions, and best value going forward,” he said.
“As well as promoting innovation and supporting our business community, I’ll focus on the core essentials of improving our roading network, water and sewerage infrastructure, and continue climate change management strategies.”
DETAILS: Voting day for this year’s local body elections is on October 8, but voting can be carried out from September 16, if enrolled.
Find more information about local government elections and how to enrol online at www.vote.nz.
