Second time lucky for Goldsmith in Michael

Former civil servant David Goldsmith has joined the board of Michael Commissioners, at the second attempt.

He polled 209 votes in yesterday's by-election, comfortably beating community development worker Janet Gaynor Bailey, the only other candidate, who got 127.

There was a 26 per cent turnout.

Mr Goldsmith, a finance officer at the Department of Education until his retirement two years ago, will serve a short term, until May 1 next year.

It was his second venture into local politics, following an unsuccessful bid to gain a seat on the Michael board in a by-election, in 2009. 

On Mandate this morning (Friday), he said his experience as a finance officer would put him in good stead, and he was looking forward to the job in hand (listen to attached audio):

Mr Goldsmith replaces Michael Neary, who resigned from the board in September.