A region that's thriving in a rapidly changing world
In order to achieve this, let's have:
Effective collaboration
What is it all for, if not to make progress together? In community we take care of each other and have diversity to be interesting, innovative and resilient. I am committed to putting systems in place to help Councillors and staff bring their best selves to our work, and to encourage more regional caucusing of elected members to govern with awareness of what each other are doing and partnering up to get great things done.
A resilient economy by design
The future is full of challenges and well functioning government with engaged citizens can shape their future wellbeing by doing the essentials well; proactively planning water, food, and energy security, having frequent and reliable public transport options (rail, buses or community transport shuttles) and community-led climate adaptation plans as well as a robust civil defence for emergencies. Modern ways of engaging with the community, businesses and quiet voices is vital to get the input this needs.
Prioritising our health
Our environment underpins our wellbeing. We need to protect and enhance our waterways, soil, forests, coasts and air quality to let nature work for us and give ourselves and those who come after the best opportunity to live healthy lives. Circular re-use of materials and better knowledge of our pollution regionally (e.g. microplastics, pharmaceuticals, etc) can help us manage issues before its too much.
Overall, I envisage Hamilton and the wider region to be a place where:
- We place more value on quality of life (having enough) than quantity of stuff (growth).
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Local and central government work together to reduce the cost of living and boost our resilience to shocks.
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Significant investments are made in future-fit infrastructure across the region as part of a regional-deal.
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Housing is addressed innovatively so no one is cold at night and vital whole-food items are available locally.
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Public transport options (rail, buses and shuttles) abound so owning a vehicle is a choice and not a necessity.
- Public spaces are clean, safe and accessible to all ages, cultures and abilities.
- Investment into restoring gullies, forests, our river and biodiversity brings a sense of pride.
- Community wealth is built through local SME's supported by economic development avenues who are well versed in future-fit-business practices (e.g. circular design, local investment, co-ownership by employees).
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Communities are connected to their own local energy generation and the region exports renewable energy.
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Every community has a plan (reviewed 5-yearly) for how it will adapt to climate change risks long-term.
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Local government has changed with the times and active participation is easy and rewarding.
It's all for the benefit of the community, so I want to hear from you about your priorities and ideas so I can incorporate this into my thinking.