Mosgiel Candidates Evening

Here’s my 2.5 minutes spiel – thanks Mosgiel Rotary for organising!

Kia ora. Im Sophie Barker and I’d be honoured to be your next Mayor.

My questions for you are. What’s your vision for your city? What kind of leader do you want?

I believe we all want the same thing – New Zealand’s most liveable city – a city that works for everyone.

I believe we want an approachable values-driven Mayor who builds trust and leads achievement – the sort of person who makes things happen, builds respectful relationships and represents Dunedin in an authentic way. Someone our city can be proud of.

Why would I make a great Mayor for you?

I grew up in a castle, but I have a Cinderella approach to getting things done.

I’m practical, analytical, public-spirited, empathetic and hardworking, with real-world professional business successes throughout my career – and a get things done attitude. I’m also a polished ambassador for marketing Dunedin. I have an Economics degree and have worked in economic development. I’m a current councillor.

I have an ambitious focus for Dunedin to be a strong and prosperous city. My professional business career means that I can lead a transformation – from a city that’s ‘OK’, to a city that’s a leader – the best place to live in New Zealand. Economic prosperity means money to invest in our environment, heritage and resilience. It means choices.

Here’s a quick outline of my priorities:

My goal is to Make Dunedin New Zealand’s most liveable city. A city that works for everyone

I want to:

• Focus on Economic Development to generate prosperity
• Integrate our transport system – make Dunedin flow well for everyone
• Minimise waste, both our rubbish and unwise spending
• Treasure Heritage .Protect nature. Activate strategies.
• Build strong communities
• Commit to climate change action
• Fight to get the best deal for Three Waters
• Defend our local voice from centralisation

I’ll lead this by:

• Rebuilding Trust by open communication and transparency
• Making Evidence based decisions for workable solutions
• community consultation
• Changing Council Culture with respectful leadership
• Putting people first for a thriving city

We’ve seen some dismal DCC results. Just 25% satisfaction with Mayor and Councillors and a 45% KPI achievement rate.

It’s time to rebuild trust. It’s time to deliver and get the city on track. It’s time for change. Sophieformayor.com