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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.
Andrea May BEARD
Candidate for Papakura Local Board
Candidate statement
I am proud and privileged to be standing as your candidate for the Papakura Local Board elections. My interest in standing as a candidate stems from working as a voluntary community organiser in the Papakura District for the last 2 years. Part of my organising role has been to work with communities on developing civil emergency planning. As a candidate I will be promoting more awareness and support for civil emergency planning at a neighbourhood level through appropriate council channels. One of the other interests I would like to focus on is ensuring council spending and accountability is more transparent and giving value for rate payer dollars. We are all looking for ways to counter the cost-of-living crisis and council should be more actively involved in trying to contain operating costs and rate payer charges. I look forward to your support and working with you all.
Why I want to be elected
Andrea Beard - Standing for the Papakura Local Board 2025. Having worked as a voluntary Community Coordinator in the Papakura District for the past two years I have gained a valuable insight into the potential for Council to effectively engage with citizens to build strong and resilient communities. These experiences have inspired me to seek representation at the Council table as I believe there is an untapped opportunity for Council to have more direct engagement with communities they serve.
My key skills and qualities
My background in the primary health sector and community has given me strong skills built on empathy and understanding of people. Working with many different ethnic groups has broadened my appreciation of cultural values — something that will only strengthen Council’s work within our community. I am able to communicate effectively, both in writing and most importantly - kanohi ki te kanohi. Hard work and listening to all points of view are qualities I will bring to this important role.
My top three key issues
Cost of living pressures remain a major concern. Council’s work to reduce costs is welcomed, but more savings are needed across rates, charges and project spending. Local voices must be heard by Central Government, especially regarding Mill Rd and unlocking transport corridors. Priorities include the provision of flood mitigation plans for new subdivisions and stronger community engagement and initiatives such as establishing Urban Neighbourhood Civil Emergency Coordinators (U N C E C O’s).
My position on key topics
Transport
Unlocking the southern - eastern corridors through the Mill Rd project and thus reducing congestion on the Southern Motorway network. Establishing earlier starting southern to eastern bus routes to service the growing eastern industrial estates. Prioritising footpath maintenance programmes across the Papakura District.
Water
A more robust testing regime to establish safer water supply standards. More focus on the role out of planted 'spongy' areas. Management of water supply to be undertaken and controlled by council. Greater emphasis on regular storm water maintenance preventing flash flooding events.
Built environment
With the predicted development of Drury South (residential and industrial) residents need to feel assured that the infrastructure and facilities are adequately provided across the Papakura District. The assumption that people are able to rely on public transport as they have no available car parking spaces should not be made.
Natural environment
Introducing protected areas around rivers and streams and harbour inlets to establish permanent protection schemes, such as riparian planting. Introducing ecosystem land offsets in all new residential subdivisions to promote biodiversity. Council procurement of undeveloped land areas to create specified flood mitigation.
Community
Building off of the framework that was developed based on the Ashdown Pl project - 'The little street that could'- strengthening communities from the grass roots level, through more direct support and engagement from the local board.
Economic and cultural development
Unlocking the main transport links in and out of the city, supporting the development of effective transport modes. Providing greater access and parking aligned to the public transport network.
Well-managed local government and outcomes for Māori
Establishing a clearer framework for guidance on projects and outcomes that are decided through consultation with the community including taking into account Māori cultural values. Strategic assets/infrastructure should remain in public ownership, protecting the interests of the beneficial owners and help minimise the costs of council operations.
Candidate's supporting links
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