Job: archivist and researcher of local and family history
Family: Partner of 12 years Michelle Buckham, a local videographer
Years in the Wakatipu: 10 years in Arrowtown
Main claim to fame in the resort: probably most well-known as past spokesperson for the Wakatipu Environmental Society, but prior to that as area co-ordinator for Southland REAP and as a tutor for the Alternative Education programme
Main reason for standing: I'm looking forward to the opportunity to approach local issues in a more pro-active way than was possible with the watchdog group
Single biggest issue of interest: The seemingly ever-increasing rates and increasing pressures on infrastructure. I believe this issue can only be successfully managed with responsible governance, and an integral part of this is open and transparent democracy informed by strong community input
Biggest gaffe: Once at a family gathering years ago, I tried to
introduce a friend to her own parents. I still haven't lived that one down
Tighten Yer Belt, QLDC - Everyone else has to do it
Below is my prepared response to one of the Chamber Forum questions. Karen Swaine.
Tighten Yer Belt, QLDC - Everyone else has to do it
That was the title of an opinion piece I wrote for the MS back in April 2008
I began with: “Given our current economic climate, the QLDC is being financially irresponsible by proposing another huge rates increase.”
And, I conclude with: “This is not a good time to come up with new and creative ways to spend our rates. We could do with some breathing space while we see how current big-ticket projects are going to go; projects like the Aquatic Centre, and the expensive new Council Controlled Organisations.”
Nothing has changed in the two years since I wrote that. QLDC has continued its spending spree.
What do I think should be done about it?
As I said in my opening presentation, Council needs to prioritise the projects it spends OUR rates on. In this economic climate that may mean we have to do without some of the things we're used to seeing.
Why should Council's spending be radically different than yours or mine? If your household wants a recent model Land Rover but doesn't have the income to afford it, you have to settle for a 1990s model Toyota, don't you?
I think the same accounting practices that apply to each of your successful businesses should get applied to Council's practices as well.
05 Sep 2010 11:58AMKarenS
Have your say
You will need to register or login before you can post a comment.
