By Chelsea Boyle
Russell Keys is determined to uphold his campaign promises now he is “stepping up” to the job of deputy mayor on the Carterton District Council.
Mr Keys has made the leap from councillor to deputy in just 18 months after winning the by-election in 2015.
He was sworn in as deputy yesterday at the first meeting of the new triennium, alongside incumbent mayor John Booth.
The new council was welcomed at the Carterton Events Centre with a stirring waiata performed by Carterton School pupils.
Existing councillors Mike Ashby, Elaine Brazendale, Ruth Carter, Jill Greathead and Greg Lang were joined by three new council members, Brian Deller, Tracey O’Callaghan and Rebecca Vergunst.
Mr Keys was unanimously supported by his fellow councillors in the move to deputy.
He said he remained focused on the upcoming rural and urban fire services amalgamation, a cause which was important to him as a volunteer fireman.
Mr Keys said the merger was an opportunity to take a “fresh new look at things”.
He also wants to “help move Carterton forwards” by encouraging more youth involvement in the community.
Mr Keys was nominated for the position by John Booth, a motion that was seconded by Mike Ashby.
