Lawton brings science and wide resource management experience to Otago Regional Council election

Announcing her nomination for the Dunstan Ward of the Otago Regional Council, Wanaka based scientist Dr. Maggie Lawton wants to apply her skills, experience and knowledge to the on-going health and wealth (natural capital and monetary capital) of the Otago Region.

Nominated by Alistair Porter of Queenstown and Clair Higginson of Alexandra, Lawton says long-term sustainable development is her priority, a view she shares with her nominators.

The Otago Regional Council (ORC) exists to ‘promote the sustainable development and enhancement of Otago's resources working to ensure that these unique resources are used in a way that preserves them for future generations’ and Lawton says that while the core purpose sounds straightforward, achieving it requires vision, analytical and people skills, a good understanding of the issues and strength of purpose.

“The Region is in growth mode, living here is good and there are many opportunities to grasp,” she says. “Infrastructure needs to keep pace with demand while ensuring there are no unintended consequences to natural resources and natural heritage; the mountains, lakes and river, soils, land and biodiversity that sustain our economy and our spirit as we develop and diversify our economic base.”

If elected, Lawton’s primary role would be to represent those living in the Dunstan Ward of the Otago Region, a large and diverse constituency including Central Otago and Queenstown Lakes.

“I would do that using the analytical skills I developed whilst a forensic scientist and the knowledge gained in issues in rural and urban sectors whilst a science manager in environmental research.

“I’ve also worked in local and regional government in strategy, policy and water management roles. I have central government, business and voluntary community board experience. I presently have my own consultancy and am familiar with the pros and cons of running a small business. If elected I can manage my time to put my elected role first. My main interest is to work with the community to develop opportunities and solutions for the issues that affect them now and will affect them in the future, while sustaining the long-term health of the environment.”

Lawton has lived in Wanaka full-time since 2012 and part-time for ten years before that and says that like many, she is here because of the beauty of the district, the opportunities it presents and the inclusiveness and energy of the people.

“From my current work in water research I can see that having better knowledge of the state and trends of our lakes and rivers, plus the development of catchment management plans is critical. Our waterways help define the region and the presence of unwanted growth in the lakes and rivers shows that some of them are under threat. That’s a key issue for the Council and community to work on collectively.”

Lawton’s work in urban design and infrastructure has focused on ensuring those developments enhance social and economic requirements while also sustaining environmental resources and values as well.

“Any resource management decisions must also consider the long term impacts of changes in climate, energy provision and global as well as local trends.”

Lawton encourages people to take part in the local government elections.
“At the last triennium, it was noticeable that there was a low voter turnout for much of the Dunstan Ward. It’s your region, please do participate.”

ends

© Scoop Media