Interpreting election results and community message:
If there is a single message from the election it is that the community want us to focus on protecting their lifestyle and environment. Whether it is residents who want freedom from constant neighbourhood disturbance from unruly short stay clients or illegal overnight campers near the beach. Most voters saw through the nonsense about locking motorboats out of the river, and focussed on the genuine issues like protecting our environment and putting residents first.
Reflections on the campaign and fairness:
Every election has its challenges, but I am very happy with my campaign that was based on a positive action-focussed platform about issues that mattered to people. Over 2000 more people voted for me in this election, compared to the last, so that’s very re-assuring. I am very grateful for the tremendous assistance I received. From the young kids from the football club letterboxing to the octogenarians handing out my how to vote cards the grassroots support and spirit of volunteerism in our community is fantastic.
First priorities as councillor and goals for the term:
We need to be mindful of the cost-of-living squeeze in the upcoming budget deliberations. I will be pushing for a reduction in rate payer subsidy of free buses by removing the $30 Transport Levy and introducing a congestion charge or paid parking system in our key tourist precinct with exemptions for residents. Other priorities for the budget include the commencement of a 10-year program of gravel road sealing, and increased allocation to council compliance to address rowdy BnBs and encroachments on our public land, parks and beaches.
I will be seeking a commitment from my colleagues to adopt and implement a Destination Management Plan that reflects community aspirations and reduces over-tourism.
Additional comments:
As the dust settles from another difficult campaign, I would like voters to know we will get straight down to the task of advocating for their lifestyle. We have some serious challenges facing us and we need a hard working council that acts as collaboratively as we possibly can for the benefit of residents.
