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
As a current Chair, Local Board member with 15 years' experience, I bring a wealth of local government expertise in arts and culture, library, sport and recreation, economic development, and planning. I continue to advocate for action-focused, fair outcomes that deliver for all residents, pushing for smart development that maximises open space and balances the needs of community to help Puketāpapa thrive. Community is at the heart of everything I do and believe in, with twenty-plus years' experience on boards of trustees, including Mt Roskill Primary and Grammar, Roskill Together. I am the founder of Puketāpapa Business Voice, Local Business Association, a Justice Peace and Marriage Celebrant. Having studied health sciences, I work every day to help people achieve healthy lives. We need a local board that genuinely keeps the community at the heart of all its decisions. Vote Ella Kumar and all C&R Candidates.
Why I want to be elected
I will continue to be a voice for all Puketāpapa communities. The diverse communities have different needs that need to be addressed through many Council projects and departments. Local boards need a reflection of the community at local board level, this assist Councils to address the needs and encourages engagement. Continue to encourage leadership to others in my local community. Encourage local community to engage in consultation to have their voices to be heard and help to bring change.
My key skills and qualities
I have 15 years experience on Puketapapa Local Board. 20 years experience on local board of trustees school committees. I hold a Postgraduate Certificate in Health Science degree. I believe in Holistic wellbeing is part of thriving communities. I am a Justice of Peace serving the community since 2007. I am the founder of Puketapapa Business Association, now transferred responsibility to the local businesses to run. In my first term commenced the local Matariki event.
My top three key issues
1. Rates. Keep rates affordable and used to deliver the needs of the community. 2. Roads and footpaths. Advocate to CCO groups like Auckland Transport to work with community at all levels. Puketāpapa needs to upgrade footpaths that serves the needs of young and old users. 3. Core deliveries. Make sure the “Core work of Council” is a priority like rubbish collections, servicing our parks, reserves, public spaces, supporting community with permits and other council departments.
My position on key topics
Transport
Advocate for all users. Car users need to be part of all discussions as Auckland needs car commuters to be part of thriving communities. Good Footpaths need to be part of our change to get people walking and using options like public transport.
Water
Local boards need to work closely with all water departments to deliver address the best quality for local community.
Built environment
Local boards need to advocate to get best outcomes that address the growth, community needs should not be jeopardised by intensifying areas without holistic needs met. Infrastructure upgrades are a priority to urbanisation and growth.
Natural environment
Continue to educate community this is a responsibility for us all, it is a reality. Projects addressing natural environment enhancements is continued.
Community
Continue to encourage local leadership in communities to help community to thrive. Local events to bring people together. Advocate and encourage for holistic needs that support community to live, work and play locally.
Economic and cultural development
Continue to support small businesses in the local community. Encourage live work and play local. Encourage ways to find Local employment opportunities. Support local Business Association to become self sustained organisation. Encourage Events that reflect the diversity through arts and culture. Encourage and advocate for better Sporting places and spaces as this brings wider Auckland to local areas.
Well-managed local government and outcomes for Māori
Advocating for local storm recovery and future needs to prepare community for future disasters. Continue to have Maori education opportunities in local events.
Candidate's supporting links
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