Disclaimer
The information on this page has been provided by the candidates. It does not reflect the views or positions of Auckland Council.
Candidate statement
I was born and grew up in Waitakere and moved to Devonport in 1995. I have a background in Civil Engineering and IT Telecommunications. After living in the UK I came back to Devonport in 2016. As my children have now grown up, I feel it’s a good time to put some of my business knowledge towards helping the community. On returning from the UK, I saw a number of significant changes, especially around the creation of the Super City and the creation of the Local Boards. As a ratepayer I am concerned about the seemingly endless call to spend money without any consequence and ability to audit or validate what the money is being spent on. I believe we need to get back to basics. I know what’s on my mind and I am determined to understand yours and represent you where it matters.
Why I want to be elected
It's important to have independent voices in the community. the Board has been dominated by collective groups and that independent voices are not heard My initial approach:- • Review the projects currently in the pipeline and evaluate their community value • Create a portal to allow local people to see what is happening and when. Not everyone can make the Board meetings. • Ensure that the right focus is put on local presentations at the local board meeting with a fair approach to everyone
My key skills and qualities
I come from a project management background working on large projects for Telecommunication companies. I know how to deliver from initial costings through to concept design and build with a keen eye on delivering what was promised within budget. I trained as a civil engineer, so I have a good understanding of basic council deliverables such as roading, drainage and logistics.
My top three key issues
• Using the local board budget sensibly with a view to benefiting the whole community rather than small interest groups • Supporting Community Endeavours such as the Clay Store workshop. • Involving local residents in decision making. I believe more involvement from residents is essential. E.g. Ashburton sends out a questionnaire each year to residents asking for their feedback and areas of focus and also runs public referendums on key spending where public opinion may be divided.
My position on key topics
Transport
The Local Board does not have much input into this area. It is mainly driven from the Council. However, I feel that the North Shore is overlooked and we need to push where possible for better public transport and an improvement to the traffic in Lake Road.
Water
The Local Board should be looking at any Council initiatives and pushing back where necessary. For example (not within the Takapuna/Devonport) the current Shoal Bay Solution which is proposing other solutions which would leave the golf course intact rather than turn the Takapuna Golf Club into a wetlands.
Built environment
Planning permission rests with Council. Once again I think the Local Board should be noisy on decisions that are being made that affect the local community. For example the infill housing without proper review of the roading that currently exists.
Natural environment
Takapuna/Devonport has an amazing natural environment and it is the responsibility of the Board to ensure that Council decision are supportive of this environment and its residents.
Community
Takapuna/Devonport have a diverse range of ages and cultures and I believe that the funding should take this into account and ensure that the right facilities are available. Maintaining what we currently have is important and should be a priority of the Local Board.
Economic and cultural development
I support initiatives around local planning and initiatives identified in the local board plan
Well-managed local government and outcomes for Māori
I believe we are all New Zealanders and its important that all cultures are represented fairly and equally.
Candidate's supporting links
The candidate has chosen not to provide a response.