I have lived in St Albans 23 years, and am currently Deputy Chair of the Shirley/Papanui Community Board. The past 3 years have provided me with skills and knowledge I believe are absolutely vital to be an effective City Councillor; to be an informed decision maker, not just a rubber stamper.

Council has shown lack of respect for local knowledge; the consultation process must be about the people, for the people.

I deplore the cuts to Community funding, when we see millions of dollars spent to bail out a property developer, or purchasing the name of a flower show.

Council spending of ratepayer money is a balancing act that requires prudence, common sense, and a strong connection to the Community.

I support serious research into water and land use, mitigation of pollution, water conservation.Council must show leadership and make water protection a priority; we cannot afford to be complacent.

 

Top 5 Issues

1. Consultation. The resisdents are not being heard, even if they take the trouble to make a submission or a deputation to council, it seems to make no difference. I believe it is up to the elected members to bring the voice of the people into the decision making.
2. Water. With the growth in population, industry and urban development our pristine water is at risk .I support urgent research into water and land use, water conservation, and mitigation of pollution.
   
3. Community funding. Over the past 2 years the Council has made cuts of $1.5m to Community funding. The reduction in these funds has in fact been even greater, since there has been no increase for inflation in over 12 years. I value community groups and organisations, and all the volunteers who donate their time for the good of others. I will work to restore the finding to these vital networks .
4. Rubber stamping. Councilors must read the staff reports carefully, do their own research, and ask pertinent questions of both staff and the local residents before casting their vote.
5. Growth and Development .Our city plan needs urgent attention especially with regard to Heritage protection, and inner city planning. With our city growing rapidly Council must be watchful to protect our environment, our greenspace and our infrastructure.

Personal Profile

 

I was born and educated in Christchurch, and am a graduate of Christchurch Teachers College. After travelling Australia, Indonesia and Asia for a few years, I returned to Christchurch, and have lived the past 23 years in St Albans, with my husband and our 4 children. We have an old fashioned quarter acre section and are all keen gardeners. We have 2 chickens and a dog.

In 2006 our community was rocked by the Council decision to close the local outdoor pool. The residents vehemently opposed the decision and tried everything to convince the council to reconsider, but to no avail. This was my first inkling that all was not well with our Council and it's consultation process.

I was elected to the Shirley/Papanui community Board in 2007. Community groups, Churches, and voluntary organisations are the glue that hold our society together. Their importance is paramount, and they deserve Council support to continue to thrive. I am a member of The Soil and Health Association, Greenpeace, and Keep New Zealand Beautiful, and am supportive of the local Community Centre and the St Albans Swim Club. I have had close involvelment with schools as our children progressed through. I served as Director on the Board of the Canterbury Credit Union in 2006 -07, and have continued Director training.

I love Christchurch and I want to make sure we protect our green image, our precious water, our open spaces, our beaches and coastline.I want to make sure that we consult our ratepayers so they are involved in our future direction, and our spending.

I have experience with local Government. I know the Shirley/Papanui ward and the issues. I have financial skills, and I am willing and able to serve as a City Councilor to make fair, balanced decisions for our beautiful Garden City.