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For the last 25 years I’ve raised my family on the Hibicus Coast, worked as a secondary school teacher, outdoor education coordinator and local councillor. I’ve led sporting clubs, local community organisations and coached a variety of youth codes. The advancement of this area and its people is fundamental to me as a councillor and I consider it a privilege to represent the ward.
What are the three crucial issues facing the Hibiscus Coast?
Developing an effective transport network that is future-proofed for a number of different modes of travel, encouraging more local employment and protecting the distinctive lifestyle that attracts people to live on the Hibiscus Coast.
How would you address these issues?
I’d address transport through a combination of Penlink, dynamic-laning and improved ferry and bus services (the last three already occurring in 2016/17); employment through the Silverdale employment zone and existing town centres; and our unique lifestyle through an increased open space network, environmental protection and the provision of enhanced community facilities including the Hammerhead and Archers Block and Metro Park.
How can Council improve its performance?
To improve its performance, Council has to be far more responsive to local demands, develop an organisational ‘culture’ based on actual ‘results on the ground’ and reduce unproductive bureaucracy and waste. There needs to be less policy and more local capital works and services. Stronger leadership and direction over a number of Council Controlled Organisations is needed. Several should be incorporated back under direct Council control without further delay. There is public demand for more accountability from these organisations.
What would you hope to deliver in the next three years?
I’d hope to deliver all the transport improvements listed above, including an advanced timetable for Penlink (it is the only major transport project in Auckland that is ready to go), tightly controlled rates and a drastically transformed Council that has regained the trust and confidence of the community.
