‘Baptism of fire’ as Tim Macindoe sworn-in at first council meeting

Tuesday, 20 February 2024

Newly elected Hamilton City Councillor Tim Macindoe was sworn into office on Tuesday in what mayor Paula Southgate described as a “baptism of fire”.

Macindoe won the by-election for the East Ward seat after it was left vacant by Ryan Hamilton, who became a National MP in the last election.

Macindoe received 5874 votes, 3666 ahead of Leo Liu, who received 2208 votes.

Southgate welcomed Macindoe to council, saying he would be a great asset to the council but that she felt for him for the “baptsim of fire that you’re going to have today”.

Macindoe was sworn in ahead of a council meeting where councillors would need to make decisions on the dreaded duo of extended rates rises and water meters.

Afterwards, Macindoe thanked his supporters.

“Can I simply say to the voters of Hamilton East, thank you for putting your trust in me.

“I will work as hard as I can to earn that trust over and over again, to advocate for you in meetings here or on council business, to be an accessible councillor and to honour the pledges I made during my recent election campaign.”

Macindoe finished by thanking his his wife Anne, who “probably thought a few years ago thank goodness that’s over”.

The former Hamilton West National MP lost Hamilton West in 2020 but decided to throw his hat in the by-election ring because the city was facing some significant financial challenges due to a “spending spree” in recent years.