This week it's the Spark Mayoralympic semi-finals. Votes from the Q&A heats are in and Kaye Gartner is ahead in the race to Shoalhaven Mayor. So, first up to the blocks this week to answer reader questions and state her goals is Jemma Tribe.
- Public transport in Shoalhaven is vastly under-utilised. What can Council do to make public transport more accessible and appealing to people, especially young people?
While public transport options locally are limited, I agree that they could potentially be better utilised. It would be interesting to learn what the main barriers are for people before considering actions, perhaps through a survey. I'd be keen to know whether information about routes is difficult to find or whether timings don't marry up with needs. Or maybe it comes down to parking at bus stops/train stations, lighting, amenities, or safety/hygiene concerns.
- One of the biggest Shoalhaven employers is human services - from aged care to early childhood, teachers, health, community services, police. How will the new mayor ensure open communication to this sector? Will the mayor support council having a voice for and listening to community services?
I've worked in the Health/Community Services industry for many years and it is the number one employment sector locally (growing considerably over the last 10 years with no signs of slowing). The community connections team at council do a great job communicating with agencies in the sector. I would support ongoing interagency meetings, with briefings provided to Councillors.
- You state that you will make decisions by considering evidence and feedback. What if the feedback contradicts the evidence as has been the case, for example, with potential rate rises and other recent issues before Council?
(Gillian Boyd, Labor candidate, Ward 3)
I do believe it's important to make decisions with evidence-based reports and community consultation. While the community largely rejected the 44% rate rise proposal, the feedback seemed to be in favour of Council finding efficiencies in house and considering a smaller rate rise. The smaller rate rise was not pursued but the business reviews have been unfolding and I look forward to the completion of that work so that any proposed measures can be considered on balance.
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