After encouragement from members of the public and several business people, Councillor Vince Cocurullo has decided to stand for Mayor of Whangarei District in the next election.

Cr. Cocurullo’s urge to promote Whangarei District ‘s many desirable benefits over other similar New Zealand districts, and his love for Whangarei and its people, has manifested in a willingness to pursue a life of politics through which he can serve the public.

“Whangarei District needs a fresh look”, Cr. Cocurullo states. “There have been many mayors, and those who aspire to be mayor, who have talked the talk, but Whangarei now needs action.”

“We need to preserve our assets for our children’s future. Together we can make this future for them by making Whangarei the most desired and sought after district, both socially and through business.”

“Our rating system needs to be revised. The district has a genuine need to bring order to the way it constructs its rates.  The 30/50 planning in which the WDC has been involved, needs to include built-in systems to protect the district’s projected growth”.

In the past, too many have been able to imply that an incumbent mayor has a vested interest. Cr. Cocurullo holds his hand up as candidate for Mayor devoid of any vested interest. With the future of the district, and his family, occupying his heart and mind, he says, “This is my home, I was brought up here, and I want to be able to raise my children in a safe and progressive environment.”

Cr. Cocurullo says, “In 1928 Maya Angelou was quoted saying, ‘If you don’t like something, change it. If you can’t change it, change your attitude. Don’t complain.’  I’m concerned that if the Council can’t change their attitudes to a more transparent and inclusive governance, we will be left with a district which is unable to go forward, in an environment unable to change.

“As your mayor, I will bring the same transparency and inclusion to council that I provide to my clients through my computer business, and I will reign in our spending so that growth and affordability come back into line.”

“I put my name forward for the Whangarei mayoral contest in 2010. I encourage everyone who feels that this is their district and is proud to call it their home, to visit my website, www.vinceonline.co.nz and stand beside my wife and I. She is my support, and my rock and therefore yours. As a team we are strong.”

“It is time for Whangarei residents to be heard, and included.”