At
their Committee meeting on 24 February 2015, Mr Ged Power informed the Board that
he would be stepping down from his position as Chairman of Port Erin
Commissioners, with immediate effect.
Mr
Power announced, “Due to my personal circumstances changing from 'self
employed' to 'employed' recently, unfortunately I no longer have the required
hours of voluntary service required to fulfil my duties as Chairman.”
Following
the resignation, Mr Steve George was duly elected as Chairman and Mr Nick
Watterson elected as Vice Chairman, with both appointments being for the
remainder of the 2014-15 term.
Following his appointment, Steve George stated, "I'm delighted that the Board has elected me as Chairman for the remainder of this term and very much look forward to the role over that period."
Nick Watterson added, "I'm please to be able to support both Steve and the rest of the Board in the role of Vice Chairman and continue the great work the Board has achieved during its term to date."
After
the meeting, Mr Power said, “I would like to take this opportunity to thank the
Board and all staff at Port Erin Commissioners for their support during my term
as Chairman.
It
has not only been highly enjoyable with lots of positive actions, but a great
learning experience too. It’s been a very productive and rewarding period, in
which increased efficiencies and better value for money have been achieved for
the ratepayer.
I'm
confident that there will be a fluid transition to the incoming Chairman, Steve
George and Vice Chairman, Nick Watterson, as the Board has worked closely as a
team and demonstrated a responsible approach to their obligations. I'm very
pleased to have been involved with the development of a more open and
transparent style of governance at a local level. Particular thanks must be
given to our Clerk, Mr Jason Roberts, whose skill and expertise has created a
modern business system that is not only wholly accountable, but also has the
ability to easily absorb services effectively, as recently demonstrated with
the transfer of services from the Department of Infrastructure. His actions
have been transformational for the community.
Port
Erin continues to be a favoured destination to live, visit and do business. It
has been an honour to lead in strengthening this attraction in which we reside.
The
activity and great effort from local groups, societies and Port Erin Traders
Association demonstrates a positive approach to team working within our
community. Our hectic event calendar and commercial 'buzz' is the envy of many.
Our
careful financial strategy and planning will also give our residents security
for the future. Our present position is healthy and we continue to strive for
further efficiencies whilst providing better amenities and services.
Recent
highlights have included the planned reopening of the Broughs paths and
footbridge at Spaldrick, the securing of the finish of the End to End Mountain
bike race in the village, a welcomed zero rate increase on the rates for
2015-16 and plans for better use of our assets such as the recent outline
planning application for housing along Maine Road.
I'm
keen to see further Regeneration Funds directed to Port Erin. As we know, the
plans for the Railway Station and street improvements within the central retail
area are scheduled to commence later in 2015, and there are other schemes under
discussion.
It
has also given me immense pleasure from my position on the Southern Civic
Amenity Site Board to now see the facility open at lunch times!
I
will continue to serve the community as a Member of the Board of Port Erin
Commissioners with a focus on how to create partnerships with other local
authorities and identify measures to save money and improve services in the
South of the Island. A common sense, modern approach has to be undertaken multi
laterally by the 6 Local Authorities and their associated administration
centres. We are all facing challenging times ahead and have to prepare for the
future, the current framework of Governance in the South holds great opportunities.
A reorganisation of what we do and how we do it has the ability to save
significant six-figure sums across the Southern communities.”
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