The Regional Council needs experience, leadership and councillors who already know their way around local government. That’s why I’m asking for your vote.
I bring 15 years’ experience as a Waikato District Councillor and a sound understanding of the region’s challenges and the experience to meet them head on.
Aspirations of our communities have been a priority for me, leading the Blueprint process, District Plan appeals committee Chair, Alcohol Licensing Committee Chair and Regulatory Committee Chair. I also serve on all the major council committees and many other committees.
I’ve been on Regional Council committees including Drainage and Rivers (25yrs), Public Transport and Regional Civil Defence. I have gained an extensive understanding of the District and the Region and served as an RMA Commissioner. I am a supporter of the Raglan 23 bus service.
On three waters I support reform, however I do not support the current Government proposals!
Focusing on Raglan in particular the upcoming waste water discharge consent from Waikato District Council is of great significance. The two Councils need to work together on options to avoid discharging into the harbour e.g. discharge to land options. On the issue of water quality, continue the work that will ensure water discharges to the harbour only come from healthy waterways. Ensure coastal erosion is managed efficiently and work with the rural community on erosion with programmes such as revegetation of both the hills and waterways.
I have actively worked in most of the Districts communities, both rural and urban, with the responsibilities I have had with the District Council. Those experiences and relationships are and will be key to being the voice for Whāingaroa. I have worked with both local Hapū and Iwi and have good networks that will assist in matters relating to the Treaty and other joint initiatives.
I’m currently President of the Waikato JP Association, with extensive experience in governance and management. I farm beef cattle at Te Kowhai, near Ngaruawahia.
