The Western Bay of Plenty District Council announced today it is mourning the sudden loss of one of its newly elected Councillors, Richard Crawford.
The Council said in a statement Crawford died earlier this morning following a heart attack her suffered yesterday while biking.
Western Bay Mayor James Denyer said he and the community are "shattered by the news."
"On behalf of Council, I want to express my deepest sympathy to Richard's wife Julie, and his family, friends and loved ones. The news of his death is a huge shock, and his passing will be felt keenly by his colleagues at Council and in the wider Te Puke community".
Crawford was elected as Councillor in 2022, following a term as Te Puke Community Board chairman, from 2019 - 2022.
"His contribution at Council and previously on the Te Puke Community Board was significant and his commitment to community organisations in Te Puke was much valued. He will be sorely missed."
Denyer said the death of Crawford would leave a gap in the community.
"Losing someone so unexpectedly is hard to grasp and this will take some time to process. Richard was a hugely respected member of the Western Bay of Plenty District Council whānau and his passing leaves a big gap," said Mayor James.
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