Like a lot of people, I used the holiday break to take stock and look ahead.
Since we have a local body election later this year, for me that meant coming to a final decision as to whether I would be a candidate again or not. This is not a career for me and I’ve always said I’ll step away without regret or complaint if I ever find my heart’s no longer in it.
After giving some thought to what we’ve achieved as a Council, what we’ve yet to achieve, as well as the many complex challenges facing local government in this moment, I quickly concluded my heart wouldn’t forgive me if I walked away now. So once again in October, I’ll be asking for your support to carry on as Mayor for a third term.
We’re by no means perfect, but the Council I have been privileged to lead for six years works well together, remaining focused on the city’s best interests without the divisive politicking that distracts other Councils.
More than ever, this collaborative approach will help us strike the right balance between reining in costs to keep a lid on rate increases and maintaining critical services and infrastructure.
This is particularly so when it comes to protecting and enhancing our harbour and waterways, along with ensuring the city’s interests are well served by the new water authority – getting that balance right could not be more important.
We also need to make sure Porirua’s interests are advanced when it comes to decisions taken by central government on things like local government reform, transport and housing. Whether this government or the previous one, they know to expect fearless, non-partisan advocacy on Porirua’s behalf from the Council under my leadership.
Likewise, residents and ratepayers can count on me to continue telling it as I see it without spin or sugar coating because I couldn’t do otherwise if I tried.
18 Feb 2025
