Seven candidates will contest this year's Waitomo Energy Services Customer Trust (WESCT) election, with beneficiaries set to choose three Trustees to help guide the future of one of the King Country's most important Trust-owned assets. WESCT owns 100% of The Lines Company Limited (TLC) on behalf of its beneficiaries.
Nominations closed on Friday 31 July, with seven candidates putting their names forward for the three available Trustee positions. The candidates are Shane Carr, Andy Connors, Leanne Massey, Shelley Mitchell, Cathy Prendergast, Maria Ralph and Yvette Ronaldson.
WESCT Chair William Oliver said it was encouraging to see such strong community interest.
"We're delighted to have seven candidates standing for election. It's a real vote of confidence in the Trust and shows there are people in our community who are passionate about helping shape the future of this important local asset."
Mr Oliver said the calibre and number of candidates reflected the importance of the role.
"It's fantastic to see so many people willing to put their hands up to serve our community. Being a Trustee is an opportunity to make decisions that help protect the long-term interests of beneficiaries and ensure local ownership continues to deliver value for future generations."
The terms of the current Trustees, William Oliver, Janette Osborne, and Yvette Ronaldson, conclude on 30 September 2026, and Mr Oliver and Mrs Osborne have chosen not to seek re-election after completing nine years of service to the Trust.
Voting papers will be posted to beneficiaries from Monday 24 August, with voting closing at 12 noon on Thursday 24 September. Beneficiaries will be able to vote by post or online. At the same time, beneficiaries will also be asked to participate in the six-yearly Ownership Review Poll.
Mr Oliver encouraged all beneficiaries to make their vote count.
"This election is about choosing the people who will represent beneficiaries as shareholders of The Lines Company. I encourage everyone to take the time to read about the candidates and return their voting papers."
