Victor Luca

After 30 years abroad pursuing a career in science research, management and leadership, I returned home to the place I was born, raised and schooled at the beginning of 2019.

Midway through 2019, I decided to take a shot at being elected mayor or councillor and give back to the district. I was runner-up for mayor and made it on council. I subsequently contested and won the 2022 elections getting across the line comfortably in a two-horse race with a 27 percent margin (∼800 votes).

It has been an enormous privilege to be the mayor of my home town and district. My term started just after an inflation spike which was followed by a cost-of-living crisis. I stood on a platform of financial restrain, keeping rate rises to a minimum (affordable), a focus on critical infrastructure, making better use of council assets, putting an end to what I regarded as ill-conceived projects, better communications, critical thinking and evidence-based decision making among other things. I can say hand on heart that I did my best to deliver on those commitments.

In the most recent election, the progress vote count gave me a 19-vote lead over Nandor Tanczos which then converted to a 96 vote deficit after the preliminary count had concluded. Mr Tanczos’ lead stretched to a 144 vote margin when the final result was declared.

That effectively puts an end to a short but eventful political career. I congratulate Mr Tanczos on his victory and wish him all the best.

I wish to thank the Whakatāne community that has been supportive and kind to me during my term and especially all those that voted for me. I particularly want to thank those that have been by my side during my entire tenure. Those folk have shown unwavering faith in my ability, and I shall never forget it.

I am not sure what is in front of me, but it is my intention to continue to write op-eds in this paper.