Committed to Hamilton and the Waikato
Martin serves on the Hamilton City Council and Waikato District Health Board. During the Local Elections in October 2013 he topped the poll for both organisations. He is currently Chair of the Hamilton City Council Community Forum. Martin is standing again for council (West Ward) and the DHB in the 2016 local elections.
“During the past three years we have found Martin to have all the necessary values and skills that one needs as a Councillor. The ABILITY TO LISTEN and ANALYSE ISSUES, INTEGRITY and COURAGE OF CONVICTIONS.”
(Bill Cowey Ruakura Residents Group, August, 2013).
“Gallagher can be formidable when he brings all his considerable experience to bear...a strong addition to council”
(Waikato Times July 13, 2013. P 5)
Advocate for communities and residents
Martin has wide experience in business, education and Local Government, previously serving Hamilton as a Councillor, Deputy Mayor and a Member of Parliament.
He has extensive experience as an advocate for communities and residents, representing their interests over decades with an inside knowledge of governmental processes.
Controlling debt and holding rates – but keeping a long term vision
In the current environment of tough economic times for households and business, it is essential to have prudent financial management of the city by controlling debt and holding rates.
Councillors must also have a long term vision to create the conditions for our city to flourish.
The vision includes city planning and development with strategies to manage the increasing traffic volumes and the need to continue to improve public transport.
Passionate about the right of people
Martin stood for the Waikato District Health Board because he is passionate about the right of people in the region to be able to access good health care when they need it.
He has been a strong advocate for maintaining health services for both urban and rural communities.
He was one of a number of activists who successfully lobbied for the neuro-surgery unit.
