Key Takeaways:
- Jason Marris, the chief executive of the Kaipara District, has resigned after three-and-a-half years in the role.
- Marris’s tenure spanned significant events such as Cyclone Gabrielle, the Mangawhai tornado, and government reform.
- The council will now start the process of recruiting a new chief executive.
- Marris’s achievements include bringing roading services back in-house and overseeing key programmes including hundreds of millions of dollars in capital works.
Introduction to Jason Marris’s Tenure
The Kaipara District has undergone significant changes in recent years, and Jason Marris’s tenure as chief executive has been marked by several notable events. Marris, who has been at the helm of the council for three-and-a-half years, has announced his resignation. His time in the top job has spanned Cyclone Gabrielle, the Mangawhai tornado, and significant government reform, making his tenure a challenging and eventful one. Marris’s leadership has also coincided with the three-year term of outspoken former mayor Craig Jepson, who has been at the center of several controversies, including a karakia ban and the abolition of Māori wards.
Marris’s Achievements and Legacy
Despite the challenges he faced, Marris has achieved several notable successes during his time as chief executive. One of his major accomplishments was bringing roading services back in-house, which has improved the council’s ability to manage and maintain the district’s roads. Marris has also navigated a Long Term Plan focused on recovery from extreme weather events, which has been crucial in helping the district to recover from the devastating effects of Cyclone Gabrielle and the Mangawhai tornado. Additionally, Marris has overseen key programmes including hundreds of millions of dollars in capital works across the district, which has helped to improve the district’s infrastructure and amenities. These achievements demonstrate Marris’s commitment to the community and his ability to lead the council through challenging times.
Reaction to Marris’s Resignation
New Mayor Jonathan Larsen has accepted Marris’s resignation and thanked him for his work for the Kaipara District. Larsen praised Marris’s achievements, stating that he has brought significant benefits to the district during his time as chief executive. Marris himself has expressed his gratitude to the community and the council, saying that it has been his "absolute privilege" to lead the organization. He also stated that the decision to leave was "extremely difficult" but believed that the time was right for a change. Marris’s last day at the council will be 10 April, and the council will now start the process of recruiting a new chief executive.
The Future of the Kaipara District
The resignation of Jason Marris marks a new chapter for the Kaipara District, and the council will now begin the process of finding a new chief executive to lead the organization. The new chief executive will face several challenges, including continuing to recover from the effects of extreme weather events and navigating the complexities of government reform. However, the district is also full of opportunities, and the new chief executive will have the chance to build on the successes of Marris’s tenure and take the district forward in a positive direction. The community will be watching with interest as the council embarks on this new chapter, and it is hoped that the new chief executive will be able to continue the good work that Marris has started.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Jason Marris’s resignation as chief executive of the Kaipara District marks the end of an era for the council. Marris’s tenure has been marked by significant challenges, but he has also achieved several notable successes. His legacy will be remembered for his commitment to the community and his ability to lead the council through difficult times. As the council begins the process of recruiting a new chief executive, the community will be hoping that the new leader will be able to build on Marris’s successes and take the district forward in a positive direction. With the district facing several challenges and opportunities, the new chief executive will have a crucial role to play in shaping the future of the Kaipara District.