Aimee Mackenzie

In reply to Sandy Milne ‘s letter, I have read this to be one of your main concerns and focus – should you put your name forward as a councillor – to have the microbiology lab resurrected in Whakatāne.

There is no doubt your dedication over the years has been impressive, which shows passion and persistence. But 15 years is a long time to be focused on this.

There are times when people keep their eyes fixed too long on a single point, they miss the wider landscape changing around them.

Communities evolve, priorities shift, and new voices need to be heard. It’s not about letting go of what matters to you, and progress doesn’t mean forgetting the past but being willing to adapt and move on is a great quality.

We don’t need more noise or finger pointing. We need people with ideas, energy and willingness to roll up their sleeves and work – for everyone not just their mates.

If anyone is applying for the councillor title, the power, or bragging rights – don’t. What we need are doers, for the community, not divas.