Thinking about standing again…

You may have seen the Sunday Star Times last month?

Here’s my 700 words for the opinion piece:

Why am I considering standing for Mayor? Unfinished business…

Every day I get asked “please stand”, so I’m feeling a tidal-wave of support and that the time is ripe for change. I’m also frustrated at feeling like I’m banging my head on a brick wall, so perhaps it’s time to step out from behind the scenes, stand up and lead the charge for change.

I’m hearing people saying they want new leadership, new vision and direction. Someone to grasp the reins and steer the city to prosperity for everyone. They’re frustrated at how their city, a city they love and are passionate about, is floundering in the doldrums. They see wasted opportunities and want someone to take control to create a strong future. People want a city that works for them, with well-functioning infrastructure, a flourishing economy, a resilient environment and happy communities, with opportunities for all, a city they’re proud to call home.

My number one goal is to make Dunedin the best place to live in NZ. To have a first-class city that works for everyone. To achieve that goal we need a very clear plan, strong partnerships and determination. We’re blessed with outstanding assets; now we need to work smartly to make the most of them.

The case for change is strong. We’re in the middle of consulting about our long-term plan. People are frustrated at lack of solutions for a number of issues – Dunedin Hospital, performing arts, transport connectivity, homelessness, economic development, city marketing, cost of living, city competiveness, climate threats, waste minimisation, heritage degradation, food security, environment care… the list is lengthy.

We’re at a crossroads and we’ve languished too long

The case for change: (1) Lack of strong leadership (2) Legacies of unbalanced budgets – leading to #(3) Debt and rate increases (4) Stagnant city GDP, job and wealth growth, (5) Increasing centre city issues (6) Frustration with city service delivery (7) Infrastructure challenges (8) Losing of voice championing our city (9) Climate threats (10) Lack of vision, inspiration and concrete actionable plans for Dunedin.

What I could offer? New vision and leadership style focused on practical actions to transform Dunedin. Someone with deep understanding of how Council works and how to effect change. In 2022 I was ODT’s highest performing Councillor and the top voted councillor in that election. I’m a daughter of this city and a passionate Dunedinite. Our family business at Larnach Castle created one of NZ’s leading visitor attractions. I’m a really practical person focused on getting things done. I wear many hats. Economics graduate, mother, entrepreneur, RMA Commissioner, experienced Councillor, former Deputy Mayor, tourism and economic development expert, business advisor, mentor, wildlife volunteer; a depth of life skills and experiences to give our city.

I’ve got a huge list that needs sorting. Here’s ten actions I would start with:

• Create a new joint vision and strategies for the city. Bold ambitions that inspire everyone to action.
• Take back control of Democracy vs Bureaucracy. Build back trust. Mayor and Councillors need to firmly represent communities’ interests.
• Get back to balanced budgets. We’ve added around $100 million to debt with unbalanced budgets over the last five years. We need financial discipline, accountability and transparency.
• Action is everything. Make tactical plans for key changes and deliver them.
• Focus on growing our economy. Positive new plan and partnerships to take Dunedin forward.
• Cut the red tape and roll out the red carpet. People want a responsive council that delivers. We need to restore our public service ethos to fling open the welcome gates and serve our community.
• Hit our sub-par performance targets and service levels. Get the back of house sorted with a fit-for-purpose agile high-performing council team focused on delivering results for our public.
• Value for money rates and investing. Examine everything; rationalise where sensible. Support intergenerational infrastructure investments to grow our livability
• Advocate for Dunedin. Build strong relationships with central Government. Champion our hospital, Lead city promotion shouting our messages from the rooftops.
• Keep it local – elevate Council’s procurement with Dunedin businesses

New vision, new focus: I’d lead the charge to transform Dunedin to the best place to live in NZ.