Hawkins' comments ‘extraordinary’ | Otago Daily Times Online News

Dispute Over Councillor's Appointment

A controversy erupted in Dunedin, New Zealand, concerning the appointment of city councillor Sophie Barker to a hearings panel for plan change 1, which involves adding 146 properties to the city's heritage register. Former mayor Aaron Hawkins raised concerns about a potential conflict of interest, citing Barker's ongoing heritage advocacy as jeopardizing the process' integrity.

Defense of the Appointment

Councillor Jim O'Malley, who selected Barker, defended the appointment, stating it was positional rather than personal and highlighting Barker's experience. Councillor Andrew Whiley also defended the appointment, criticizing Hawkins and suggesting his concerns were politically motivated, possibly related to a potential return to local government.

Arguments and Counterarguments

• Hawkins argued that Barker's advocacy creates a conflict of interest, potentially leading to legal challenges.
• Whiley countered by pointing to past instances where Hawkins himself faced similar conflict of interest accusations.
• Barker asserted her experience in managing conflicts of interest and her commitment to impartiality.
• O'Malley emphasized the panel's composition, noting the presence of an independent commissioner and highlighting the importance of natural justice.

The panel chairman, Rob van Voorthuysen, obtained an independent legal opinion confirming that no conflict of interest existed.