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The information on this page has been provided by the candidates. It does not reflect the views or positions of Auckland Council.
Thomas Joseph VANDERLAAN
Candidate for Franklin Local Board (Waiuku Subdivision)
Candidate statement
Tena Koutou katoa. I am standing because I care about the Waiuku Community and believe that I can be a strong advocate on the Franklin Board for local issues, concerns and aspirations. My time as Principal at Waiuku college for 13 years has made me both well informed and well connected to what matters to the people of both Waiuku township and the rural communities on the Awhitu Peninsula and surrounding areas. As a ratepayer I share concerns that in terms of services and facilities, Waiuku must not be overshadowed by the rapid growth of Pukekohe so that it remains a vibrant and attractive town to both residents and newcomers. I have previous Board experience on the Manurewa Board and Wiri Licensing Trust and I have also served on two School Boards and been involved with local groups including the Sports Park development team. Ngā mihi.
Why I want to be elected
Be available and listen to the community to present their voices, opinions and aspirations to the Local Board. Build trusting relationships with existing local groups and leaders to stay informed. Work collaboratively with the Board and Council Staff to get the best possible value for money from Council services and Board Projects in the local area.
My key skills and qualities
Experience in Leadership as Waiuku College Principal for 13 years and 6 years as a NZ Territorial Army Officer. Skilled listener and communicator with strengths in advocating a position, working towards consensus and making informed decisions. Previous experience as an elected representative on a Community board, on a Licensing Trust Board and on School Boards. Being retired I also have the luxury of time and flexibility to be able to do this important role justice.
My top three key issues
Local Voice versus top down decision making from the Council and Government Agencies. Getting the best possible outcomes in terms of ammenities, services and support for the Waiuku Area Supporting residential and economic growth that provides opportunities to live locally, work locally and access quality services and ammenities locally
My position on key topics
Transport
Restore sensible speed limits and rationalise traffic calming obstructions in built up areas (eg raised crossings) Maintain free local parking options in built up areas where public transport is not an option to replace private vehicle use Provide safe and sensible cycling and walking options in built up areas where data shows local demand and reasonable use to justify investment of ratepayers money by council / board Provide bus services where data shows use justifies costs of service.
Water
Allow greater local input about water and wastewater provision. Expansion of wastewater services is needed in Waiuku to allow positive housing and business growth. Adding Fluouride to water should be a community decision, especially in Waiuku where the water supply is not tied to that of greater Auckland. Effective local plans should be in place to manage and maintain waterways and drains to accomodate extreme weather events and mitigate flooding risks.
Built environment
In Franklin it is important to retain the 'main street and village square' quality that exists at present, in the face of increasing housing development and urban creep. That means adding quality to our town spaces and maintaining free parking options for our communities that still predominantly rely on cars to get around. High quality and attractive town square spaces need to be maintained along with heritage features to provide a source of pride and connection for communities like Waiuku.
Natural environment
Very important to preserve and enhance natural spaces and access to them to allow people to connect and experience well being from connection to nature. Waiuku is blessed with its proximity to the harbour, the coast and the Waikato river along with the open spaces of the dune hills from Maioro to the Manukau Heads. Access and enjoyment of these natural features must be a part of our communities long term vision and planning. Community involvement in protecting biodiversity should be encouraged.
Community
The Local Board Reps need to ensure that Mana Whenua Ngati Te Ata, The Local Business Association, The Schools and the Local Sports and Service Organisations are all participants and contributors to creating a connected community and ensuring it's wellbeing - and that a wide range of voices are being listened to. Availability and having the skills to facilitate community voice opportunities will be important. Also brokering partnerships to provide and utilise facilities as well.
Economic and cultural development
The Local Board should work closely with the Business Association, Mana Whenua Ngaati te Ata and Local land based individuals and organisations to plan and facilitate economic growth opportunities for our area. The Glenbrook Industrial zone has the potential for economic development and local job growth that will be positive. And the cultural and natural features and history of the area should be developed and promoted to stimulate visitors who spend locally.
Well-managed local government and outcomes for Māori
Relationships and consultation with Mana Whenua Ngaati Te Ata and other Waiohua ki Manukau groups and communities will help facilitate positive outcomes for Maaori. Ports of Auckland land interests in the Waiuku Sub-Division should be reviewed with the option of return to Mana Whenua being considered. Building local emergency response hubs and resources similar to those in the Wairoa Ward would be positive for the more remote rural parts of the Waiuku area.
Candidate's supporting links
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