I was asked on my facebook page:

” What is my take on sustainability, recycling, bi-cultural cohesion, planning for growth and how I would like to see the growth infrastructure funded?”

A great question.  The following is my response.

Sustainability:  I believe sustainability is a balancing act between meeting the needs of the present without compromising the well-being of future generations.  We need to be sustainable environmentally, socially and in economic practice.  It is my view that Council needs to be mindful of ways to prevent pollution, conserve natural resources, protect environments, provide clean water, shelter and raise public awareness around sustainable practice in general. 

• I will promote the continuation of free and subsidised quality education for all children, such as Waterline and Zero Waste. Additional programmes could be established, for example Next Generation Infrastructures.   Ultimately the more individuals take steps to eliminate waste and needless consumption, the better generations will be.  Starting at an early age is proven to be a good idea.
• I will advocate for sustainable transport systems – buses and possibly trains that run on renewable fuels. Public transport needs to be convenient and affordable with routes that serve its citizens well at peak commute times. I will champion walk ways and cycle ways that appropriately link all areas of our CBD and suburbs.  I am keen to investigate the feasibility of a City Bike programme in Tauranga.
• I will promote that all new subdivisions and buildings be encouraged to meet a minimum 4 green star rating. Dwellings should be encouraged to consider eco designs. Sustainable urban drainage systems and renewable energy sources such as bio-gas created from sewage could be considered.
• I would like to see chemical spraying reduced.
• I would be an advocate for pressing central government to invest capital into the development of new technologies and infrastructures using environmentally sound practices.

Recycling:  The facts are that currently on an annual basis Tauranga sends 51,000 tonnes to recycling and 87,000 tonnes to a landfill.  Of that 87,000 tonnes, 50% could be recycled. This suggests a culture of disposable consumerism.  Ultimately personal values and actions must change.

• I would advocate for kerbside recycling, possibility in partnership with current agencies offering a service as opposed to an additional council service.

Culture and Events:  In my opinion the success of a great city is linked to the way in which its citizens are connected.  Therefore culture and events are of significant importance to me.  They are an opportunity for Tauranga to make a statement both nationally and internationally.  I want Tauranga to be a city that my children will choose to live in, a place they can be proud of.

• Tauranga needs more events, public art, and festivals.
• I am in favour of an attraction like a museum or stadium that citizens could be proud of and willing to visit often. Funding would need to be creative.

Bi-Cultural Cohesion:  I believe we should acknowledge and honour our heritage.  However I do wonder if it should be Multi-Cultural cohesion.  I like the words of Canadian social theorist Jane Jensen – “All groups should have a sense of belonging, participation, inclusion, recognition and legitimacy. (1998)  It is my view that New Zealand should be a diverse tolerant, creative and supportive place to live.

Planning for Growth:   I am in favour of a ‘master plan’, using Smart Growth data and more to project 10 – 20 years, recognising though that all ‘master plans’ will need review and monitoring for potential adjustments with time.  There are key infrastructure projects planned and budgeted for over the next 3 years.

• Completing the Southern Pipeline project for wastewater.
• Upgrading the Te Maunga Wastewater Plant.
• A new water treatment plant to supply eastern areas – Waiari.

Funding of Growth Infrastructure:  There is no doubt that funding a rapidly changing growth infrastructure is the biggest challenge, especially when you want to be able to consider more than just infrastructure for your budget.  Funding needs to be creative.   I would seek to;

• Review all sources of income, including fees from new land, housing and business development; users, government grants, collaborative projects with Regional and Western Bay of Plenty Councils, and rates.’
• Prioritise spending with evidence.
• Look to central government for funding where possible.
• Consider private public partnerships where appropriate.

It is important to acknowledge that an opinion can be altered dependent on the information you have at any given time.  It is my opinion that on any matter, it is vital that all relevant information and expert advice be sought in order to make a well-educated, informed decision.  

Jo West for Tauranga City Council, Otumoetai / Pyes Pa Ward.    West is Best!