Te Puke Economic Development Group managing director Mark Boyle is going to be standing for Mayor of the Western Bay of Plenty District, challenging incumbent Ross Paterson.

In a press release announcing his candidacy, Mark says he's been encouraged to stand by a wide range of people and groups across the Western Bay.

Te Puke Economic Development Group managing director Mark Boyle will run against Ross Paterson for Western Bay of Plenty District Council Mayor.

'It is my intention to drive forward a vision of affordable, well serviced and empowered communities with continuing economic and social development,” says Mark.

Currently Mark's engaged in a range of projects and programmes to take Te Puke forward. He intends to broaden the approach across the entire Western Bay district, offering solutions to problems and driving initiatives that attract investment, grow industry and business and create jobs.

'My campaign will address the need for improvement in the financial health of the council and to be at the forefront of the discussion on local government reform,” says Mark.

'Any change must improve affordability, protect our communities and their identities and to ensure local decision making.

'Through strong leadership, good thinking, good management, communication and inclusiveness I am confident I can deliver change for the better.”

Current Mayor Ross Paterson announced last Thursday he would be re-standing in this year's local body elections on October 12.

He was first elected Western Bay Mayor four and a half years ago after winning the by-election following the death of previous Mayor Graeme Weld in November 2008. He then ran unopposed in 2010.

'There is change coming in local government, most likely in the form of central government legislation, and it will take a strong, experienced hand to steer the Western Bay through the process successfully,” Ross said at the time.

'We have an exceptional lifestyle here, and I will do everything I can to make sure it is not jeopardised by unnecessary change.”