Crownthorpe's Stuart Perry has worked for the Hastings District Council previously and a number of other governing bodies, and has decided to stand for Hastings mayor in the upcoming by-election.
Hawke's Bay Today asked all six candidates running for mayor - here is his response.
1. What is your vision for the Hastings district?
Quite frankly I'm here because we all deserve better. We deserve a district with a council that plays its part in delivering excellent services, creates the opportunity for business/job growth and enables a quality lifestyle so people can live well. It's my vision to see the district economically stronger, build on our reputation as the food bowl of NZ, to have safer communities, dynamic town centres, tourism growth and recognised as the centre for the arts. Free up land for housing for residential growth, review centre city zoning working with developers for inner-city apartments. My council will work with rural groups to protect and maximise opportunities for horticulture and farming.
2. What steps will you take in your first 100 days to turn this vision into reality?
Meet with key groups and organisations and form think tanks of residents and sector groups to take 'the pulse of our community'. We need to know what you want. Review the structure of council and look at the first steps in getting rates to an affordable level. Work with the executive to develop a citizens' focused 'service culture' within council by putting your interests first and cutting the red tape!
3. Name the one main area you would collaborate with other Hawke's Bay councils on.
Water! Ratepayers deserve safe chemical-free drinking water that tastes good, healthy waterways and the rural sector deserve a secure water supply to underpin regional economic growth.