Issues

Top 5 issues :

1. Strengthening our collaborative relationships with the other territorial authorities without amalgamating with them.
  
I'd like to see an increase in our shared services, as we need to work together to improve the economic viability of our region. However, amalgamation would mean a loss of Napier's identity, a loss of our financial autonomy, a loss of jobs, and a loss of our current democratic representation.

2. The city's affordability.

This means keeping our rates low, but also making sure our charges are reasonable, with concessions for pensioners and beneficiaries so all can enjoy our wonderful amenities and facilities.

3. Revitalising the Inner City.

Internet buying has added to the decline in a lot of our city’s retail sales, so spearheading an ongoing Buy Local campaign would raise public awareness and increase support for local retailers.

We also need to look at creative ways of filling the empty shops, and making sure parking charges are affordable.

4. Increasing two-way communication with our citizens.

By encouraging better use of the ward councillors in keeping people informed and gathering feedback; by issuing media releases after each council meeting; and by using social media to connect particularly with young people.

All citizens have the opportunity to speak to council before every meeting, which is one effective way of hearing issues of concern to our people.

5. Youth unemployment.

Napier’s proportion of 15 to 24 year olds that are NEET (not in employment or education) is higher than average, meaning that too many of our young people are disengaged from school or work. They are our city's future, and their engagement is crucial to our city's social and economic well-being.

Napier City Council has signed up to the Mayor’s Taskforce for Jobs (see www.mayorstaskforceforjobs.co.nz), best exemplified in Otorohanga, where a wrap-around training-employment programme has resulted in almost full employment for youth. NCC now needs to make a serious commitment to implement such a project by working in partnership with HBEIT, secondary schools, Māori authorities, businesses, providers and government departments in tackling this critical issue.