As a Council, we should be committed to providing a platform for thoughtful, responsible growth that supports industry, fosters innovation, and strengthens community connection.
The importance of collaboration, remaining calm and respecting the thoughts of others allows for decision making grounded in integrity. My focus will be to listen to all voices across our district.
I am open minded, a logical thinker, and have a long-term approach to the challenges and opportunities our community faces.
I believe the New Plymouth District deserves a high-performing, agile council that delivers on its promises. That means maintaining budget integrity and finding better ways to deliver with resources we have. By simplifying processes, strengthening advocacy, and building strong partnerships, we will position our district to make wise, future-focused investments while looking after the now.
The new council needs to listen, lead with clarity and act with purpose.
No
Yes
What?
The transitioning economy needs to be a focus not only for NPDC but the entire region. NPDC needs to make it easier to do business in the region. There are a number of levers the council can pull that can help this process.
Yes
Why?
NPDC have been working closely with a number of organisations and has recently committed $800,000 from our housing reserve to help build and operate a night shelter at The YMCA. The governments social services have been inadequate in this space.
Yes
Why?
I voted for this. A CCO enables water infrastructure funding and debt to be ring fenced. An independent entity with Council rules that has a sole focus on water delivery will ensure the huge amount of work that is needed can be done.
Yes
Why?
All of our long term planning needs to take into consideration the effects that coastal erosion and more intense rainfall events have on our environment. Mature conversations about where to grow and in some instances managed retreat need to be had.
Yes
Why?
The Hub will quickly become one of the best used and most frequented places in the region. It will have huge social, health and economic benefits. Any external funding will reduce the cost. A massive fundraising effort is now required.
No
Why?
Clearly the separators used in construction are causing issues for some drivers. Linking our amazing walkways and making these safer and more user friendly for cyclists and pedestrians would be a better use of resource.
Keep
Why?
Māori voter participation increased by more than 22% with the decision to create a Māori ward last election. Higher participation, higher engagement. Better engagement in society improves health, social and economic outcomes for all.
The major events policy passed in council recently is a good start. This policy is set up to collect any money made off other events into a reserve. When bidding for large/ popular acts there is often a large price tag.
Build an elected member team that wants to get New Plymouth humming. Spend time in every department of the organisation, listening , learning and understanding our people.