By Lee Scanlon of
Photo: Westport News / Lee Scanlon
Buller's new mayor has doubled down on his refusal to speak to reporters, saying he plans to keep it up as long as he's mayor.
Chris Russell is believed to be the only mayor in the country who won't front media. He requires written media questions and responds in writing - and will only answer questions he considers appropriate. He often responds with a broad statement.
Russell won't say how many interview requests he declined last week when AA Insurance's decision to refuse new insurance cover in Westport, because of the town's flood risk, made national headlines.
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