Wendy Schollum has today released a report detailing funding and support for her Mayoral campaign, saying that no other candidate running for Council or the Hastings Mayoralty has yet responded to her June challenge to do the same.

Schollum expressed disappointment that the people of Hastings will not have full information about who is standing behind every name on the ballot paper, releasing this statement:

“When I first announced that I would run for Mayor of Hastings, I challenged my fellow candidates to publicly disclose who is supporting their campaign, financially and politically. I asked them to match my pledge to do this before voting opens on 9 September.

“It is disappointing that as of today, not even one fellow candidate has responded to my challenge.

“Today, as promised, I have released a full report on spending and support for my own mayoral campaign on my website, linked below.

“Under our current electoral rules, candidates don’t have to disclose who’s funding them until after the election. That means voters will be asked to make some of the most important decisions for our district’s future without knowing who is standing behind each name on the ballot.

“I would encourage Hastings voters to add their voices to my call for openness in our local elections, and approach other candidates directly for this information if they feel comfortable doing so.

“My commitment to transparency is not just for this campaign. As Mayor, I will make sure the Council is working for the people it is elected to serve. That’s why, if I become Mayor, I will ensure Council is always open and accountable to Hastings people. And honest communication will go both ways; community feedback will be front and centre in all major council decisions.

“Fellow candidates – let’s raise the bar. There’s still time. Let’s lead the country. Let’s make Hastings a place where leadership starts with trust, and campaigns start in daylight, not behind closed doors.”

Link to wendyformayor.co.nz/transparency