He was a prominent brewer and Resident Magistrate in Nelson and his sixth generation descendants still operate a brewery in the city.

[5] After his first arrival from Melbourne, Dodson bought the shares of the late Dr Renwick in the Hooper & Co brewery.

[2][4] In 1884, Dodson suffered a significant loss with the death of his business partner of 30 years, George Hooper.

[8] Dodson did not receive a salary as Mayor[9] although he entertained visiting dignitaries at his own expense, such as the Governor Sir James Fergusson on behalf of the city.

[14][15] A special meeting of the remaining Councillors was held on 12 January 1875 to appoint a new Mayor but no one was forthcoming.

[16] In mid February, seven people stood for Council and since that was the number of vacancies, they were declared elected.

[17] At a council meeting on 26 February, a new mayor was elected and Joseph Levien accepted the position.

[4] Also during his term, Dodson and the Council lobbied Government to extend the existing railway and link it to the main line at Blenheim.