Meet your Eurobodalla mayor candidates

To that end, we sent out a set of key questions to each of the Eurobodalla's eight candidates who are keen to be our next mayor.

They were given the same word limits and deadlines for responding.

Their responses are presented below, in the order in which candidates will appear on the ballot paper.

- What do you see is your key role as mayor? Why are you the best person for it?

The council operates under delegations provided by NSW state government legislation. The roles and responsibilities of the mayor are outlined in the NSW Local Government Act.

While it might be inappropriate to prioritise one responsibility over others, I believe the mayor's role in presiding over council meetings is particularly important. This role involves ensuring that discussions are informed, fair, and effective. Motions are central to this process, as they are the primary mechanism by which the council makes decisions. Once a motion is passed, it becomes a formal resolution, directing the council's actions.

I am grateful I have my past experience as a ESC councillor to draw upon.

- What do you feel is/are the main local government issue/s facing residents and ratepayers? What are you going to do about it?

Cost of living pressures in this high-inflation environment are a significant concern, affecting everyone within our community. To alleviate the need for an adverse rate burden, it's crucial to focus on constraining recurrent expenditure. Increased rates and charges have a ripple effect, leading to higher rents and escalating the cost of living, particularly for the most vulnerable, including retirees on fixed incomes and social security recipients.

- What is your main goal for the council to achieve over the coming term? What concrete actions will you pursue to achieve it?

I am particularly conscious of our aging demographic and the critical importance of healthcare to our community. I support the retention of the Batemans Bay Emergency Unit and believe it is essential to review the council's previous motion supporting the concept of one shire hospital.

The recent surge in people moving to our shire brings both benefits and challenges. It demands strategic thinking to ensure that development aligns with the local context, meets the needs of the community, and respects community preferences.

- What do you see is your key role as mayor? Why are you the best person for it?

The key role of mayor is to be a facilitator, leader and above all else someone who brings people together.

In my time as mayor, I have worked hard to bring council and community back together as well as create a place where all councillors are heard. I respect different points of view and I am not stuck in my thinking. I'm pragmatic in my approach and understand how important it is to listen not only to my community but to my fellow councillors.

You are also the spokesperson for council and need to expect the 24/7 demand. You need to be independent and able to work with all sides of politics and free from a political party.

- What do you feel is/are the main local government issue/s facing residents and ratepayers? What are you going to do about it?

Rates, roads and rubbish.

Residents want to see a council that doesn't overspend and over commit. For far too long our council did that and in my short term as mayor I worked hard to turn around budgets and curb spending. Saving millions in the process and not raising rates like our neighbouring shires.

Cost of living pressures are hurting us all and its important council reflects the realities that most families are in. We have to live within our means and deliver for our community. Going after grants and building large infrastructure that we don't have the money to maintain is pointless.

Fixing our roads, delivering clean public toilets and parks and keeping rates down are our core.

Advocating to the state and federal governments no matter the party and pushing the to deliver more back to our community is also something I'm passionate about. For far too long the cost shifting back to local council has taken its toll.

Health equity for the regions is also a passion of mine. No longer is it acceptable to keep spending money on health in the cities and not giving thermions their fair share.

I will continue my push for more affordable and social housing. I have laid the ground work over the last two years to turn around our finances, change culture, deliver better community consultation, fight for more affordable housing and I will continue that fight if re-elected.

- What is your main goal for the council to achieve over the coming term? What concrete actions will you pursue to achieve it?

We will deliver the masterplan for Batemans Bay and quickly start on Moruya and Narooma.

We approach everything with a shire wide lens. Continue support for our major events in all major towns.

We will pay down our debt and keep rates low. We will continue with my initiated councillor catch-ups, live streaming, meetings with community associations, door always open policy and our budget check ins. This is important to to not only capture what the community is feeling but so there is multiple chances for you to have your say.

I will continue representing this shire with dignity and respect that the positon deserves. Bringing everyone together with a positive outlook for this shire is the key to making sure we get great outcomes.

We have to stay away from letting the council be over run by political parties and councillors of the past taking us back down the road of financial ruin.

What do you see is your key role as mayor? Why are you the best person for it?

The mayor wears many hats, key being that of civic leader and community representative, while holding a clear vision for our shire.

When it comes to council's decision making, Anthony has a track record for championing engagement and transparency. With 8 years' experience as a councillor, two years as deputy mayor, Anthony is also an active community member in local groups, from the RFS to schools, sports and the arts.

Anthony chaired council's Roads and Traffic Committee for 5 years, was council's representative with the South East Australian Transport Strategy Group for 8 years and is a member of the Gulaga Board of Management.

An ex Australian Army member and a career history of over 25 years in people and culture leadership roles, Anthony has the skills and initiative to take the lead for our shire.

- What do you feel is/are the main local government issue/s facing residents and ratepayers? What are you going to do about it?

Key issues for Anthony are: 1. Financial pressures on our rates, 2. The proposal to increase the building heights in Batemans Bay, from 18m to 70m, that has the potential to set a precedent for the whole shire, 3. Ensuring a mix of housing is available to suit the wide range of people in our shire. 4. Ensure we are fully prepared for any future natural disasters. 5. Protect our community's major asset, the environment, and do this while simultaneously supporting the economy.

Together with the Mayne Team, Anthony has a range of plans to address these issues:

We need to actively reduce the risk of a large rate hike with a forensic examination of our finances to identify opportunities to reduce the risk of large rate rises that would increase cost of living pressures on our community.

While he did not vote for the Bay Pavilions it is now important to explore ways to reduce its impact on our finances and we better understand the impact of forecast financial pressures of the Southern Dam cost issues.

Anthony will ensure residents are offered a comprehensive range of opportunities to have a say on any proposal to increase building height limits in the Batemans Bay and beyond. He will work to find ways to create affordable, sustainable housing that fits with the character of our coastal towns - it is not good enough to simply leave this to private interests.

Anthony will ensure the Climate Action Plan is updated, work at Narooma and Batemans Bay evacuations centres is undertaken, as it has been in Moruya, so that we are prepared for emergencies to come.

- What is your main goal for the council to achieve over the coming term? What concrete actions will you pursue to achieve it?

Anthony's main goal is a shire wide vision, "I want to celebrate our unique coastal identity with a more caring, sustainable and vibrant approach to our community and our environment. We can do this through the promotion of our local economy, the protection of our Nature Coast and a collaborative approach to meeting the housing needs in our shire."

As mayor, Anthony will pursue 4 main actions for a council he leads:

1. Hold an inclusive housing symposium to address the key human need for shelter.

2. Work to avoid a significant rate rise with a forensic review of the entire budget to identify cost efficiency opportunities.

3. Shine a light on the hidden agenda to transform the Bay, and other centres, into the Gold Coast 2.0.

4. Ensure work at Narooma and Batemans Bay evacuation centres is undertaken.

- What do you see is your key role as mayor? Why are you the best person for it?

The key role of mayor is to lead council in promoting a culture of respect and open communication in the council chamber and the range of responsibilities council as an organisation performs.

Council is the voice of the community in discussions and advocacy with state and federal governments.

As a community psychologist leading large, innovative community projects, I bring a long history of working across three levels of government. I am skilled in developing and sustaining partnerships. I will manage group dynamics within council to built a culture of consensus that is inclusive of all our community.

- What do you feel is/are the main local government issue/s facing residents and ratepayers? What are you going to do about it?

The main issues facing residents and ratepayers in Eurobodalla are encapsulated in the Greens platform for this election. Healthy, Happy and Housed in Eurobodalla.

Our team understands how those ideals are connected. Its difficult to be healthy and happy if you are not securely and affordably housed. Our natural environment contributes directly to the health and happiness of residents, ratepayers and our many visitors.

I will act in those important areas by:

Healthy -

Eurobodalla must take action to minimise harm from climate change. Council has a Climate Action Plan - it must be implemented;

Support the level 4 hospital in Moruya. Council must monitor usage of the Batemans Bay Urgent Care Clinic;

Improve health, aged and disability services and tackling family violence are key priorities.

Happy -

Protecting the natural beauty and biodiversity of our shire will contribute to everyone's health and happiness;

Developing a more connected local community advocate for improved mental health care services.

Housed -

Eurobodalla needs affordable, sustainable, environmentally friendly housing. Prioritising urban infill, uses existing infrastructure and minimises greenfield land releases;

Development of an Affordable Housing Strategy which includes Eurobodalla's Housing Strategy 2024-2041 is a key goal;

Work with local organisations and government to address homelessness and address the causes: poverty, domestic violence and health issues.

Economy -

Build on our existing 'Nature Coast' image and tourism industry;

Grow Indigenous knowledge in partnership with the First Nations community.

- What is your main goal for the council to achieve over the coming term? What concrete actions will you pursue to achieve it?

There are several immediate issues to be dealt with including the master plan and the range of strategic plans that underpin it including the draft housing plan.

Plans require commitment, implementation and evaluation. My main goal for the term is to finalise, implement and evaluate an affordable housing plan. That plan must work along side councils other strategic plans and within the master plan. It must be climate responsive and consider the needs of all ratepayers and residents.

There are now many models of affordable housing plans across NSW. We will learn from those to develop the best fit for Eurobodalla. We will work in close partnership with state and federal governments who are also concerned about the crisis in affordable housing.

Achieving and implementing an affordable Housing Strategy will go a long way towards achieving a Green vision of Healthy, Happy and Housed in Eurobodalla.

- What do you see is your key role as mayor? Why are you the best person for it?

I believe the mayor's key role is to foster community cohesion. It is integral to facilitate a sense of belonging among residents and ratepayers.

This can be achieved by implementing strategies and initiatives that promote social unity and resilience.

My participation in the establishment of Muddy Puddles, an integrated centre for children with disabilities. My leadership skills to assist Moruya Cancer Carers to raise over $250,000 and achieved the new oncology and renal award at Moruya Hospital. And my progressive thinking to introduce council's award winning youth apprenticeship and trainee scheme showed my dedication to promote inclusion housing.

- What do you feel is/are the main local government issue/s facing residents and ratepayers? What are you going to do about it?

Housing. There is a strong focus on increasing housing diversity and affordability. The draft Eurobodalla Housing Strategy 2024-2041 aims to promote different types of housing, such as apartments and townhouses, to meet the needs of residents while preserving the character of local neighborhoods.

Environmental concerns. Addressing issues related to flood, fire and environmental sustainability is also a priority, particularly in the context of housing and infrastructure development.

Lack of accountability and transparency. By implementing these practices, council can foster trust accountability and public engagement:

I will continue to prioritise sound money management of council's resources to ensure the continued delivery of roads, rates, water and waste services. I will also focus on promoting community wellbeing and economic opportunity while ensuring effective governance, transparency, accountability and community engagement.

- What is your main goal for the council to achieve over the coming term? What concrete actions will you pursue to achieve it?

Councils face several challenges in implementing goals.

Strategic planning and governance: Councils must balance individual mandates with community input and existing strategic plans, which can lead to conflicts and misunderstandings among new and existing councilors.

Resource constraints: The council's struggle with financial sustainability and must do more with less, impacting its ability to provide essential services and manage infrastructure effectively.

Community engagement: Ensuring ensuring effective community consultation and incorporating community needs into planning processes is a continuous challenge.

Environmental and technological changes: Council must adapt to environmental sustainability requirements, technological advancements and demographic shifts, which can complicate planning and resource allocation.

- What do you see is your key role as mayor? Why are you the best person for it?

My key role will be to make our shire a place where the local kids have more options for a career path. People believe that the shire is "booming" because of the amount of construction and the influx of retirees, but no-one has included the large numbers of local born and bred kids who have left the shire because of lack of opportunities.

I am an award-winning builder who has designed and built in the shire for 40 years, so another key role will be bridge the chasm between local builders/designers and council.

- What do you feel is/are the main local government issue/s facing residents and ratepayers? What are you going to do about it?

The main issue facing ratepayers is the cost of local government reflected in the excessive cost of rates. For instance, the Eurobodalla Shire council has burdened the ratepayers with the Pavilion which will run at a massive loss for the foreseeable future. The Pavilion was a pork-barreling exercise by state government which our council pounced upon because of the huge fees they could extract from the grant. I will look to ways of getting state government to carry some of the burden they created.

Another issue is our lop-sided demographic. While retirees are pouring into the shire even more young locals are pouring out of the shire. I will look to actively help young people with business start-up initiatives, first home-ownership help and attracting suitable, non-corporate businesses to our shire. Forty years of building and designing in the shire has given me a very deep understanding of the difficulties faced by local building businesses and tradespeople when dealing with council. I know my experiences as an award winning builder will be an asset to bridging the gap in understanding.

One of the big problems in the shire is a lack of public transport. When I was president of the Tuross Progress Association we made many submissions and put forward many ideas on this subject, all of which were ignored by council. This is an area that I will revisit. Which is why I'm standing for mayor. Councilors are a voice for the community, the mayor has a bigger voice.

- What is your main goal for the council to achieve over the coming term? What concrete actions will you pursue to achieve it?

To bring the community and council closer together so that council's goals and objectives are more community driven. I would make community representative groups a more desirable thing for the community to want to be a part of. I would accomplish this by finding a way for communities to help themselves instead of having to rely on council "having it within their budget" to do it for them.

I was fortunate to live in this shire at a time when communities built the things they needed and ran those enterprises . I experienced a community that was able to be more interactive and, as a result, a more harmonious and happier community.

To borrow a phrase......"ask not what council can do for you, rather, ask what can you do for your community" and I would make it easier for those in our community who wanted to contribute.

- What do you see is your key role as mayor? Why are you the best person for it?

As mayor, my key role is to lead our community towards sustainable growth and responsible development. With 20 years of experience in engineering and a strong background in the oyster and aquaculture industry, I bring practical expertise to the table.

My passion for land regeneration, local agriculture, and sustainable housing, along with my hands-on experience in running an oyster farm marketing business, enables me to champion community-focused solutions that support economic resilience and environmental stewardship.

- What do you feel is/are the main local government issue/s facing residents and ratepayers? What are you going to do about it?

The main issues facing our residents and ratepayers are housing affordability, infrastructure sustainability, and environmental preservation.

Our community is growing, and with it comes the challenge of balancing development with the preservation of our natural surroundings. I will advocate for responsible, sustainable development that ensures new housing is both affordable and environmentally sound.

Infrastructure sustainability is another pressing issue. Our roads, stormwater systems, and public spaces need upgrading to meet the demands of our growing population. I will prioritise investments in long-term infrastructure projects, ensuring they are designed with future generations in mind. This includes upgrading sewage and stormwater systems, improving road safety, and expanding public amenities.

Environmental preservation, including agricultural and aquaculture land, is crucial. These are important natural areas that must be protected and promoted for the benefit of both humans and animals. I will push for stronger protections for our local ecosystems, with stricter controls on pollution and robust conservation efforts to support both land and water farmers. Our natural environment is one of our greatest assets, and we must protect it for future generations.

To achieve these priorities, the council's finances need to be in good order. The previous council recognised the need for financial reform and took courageous steps to put our finances in good health. I will continue this work to ensure our shire can thrive.

- What is your main goal for the council to achieve over the coming term? What concrete actions will you pursue to achieve it?

My main goal for the council is to guide our community towards a future of sustainable development, economic diversification, and environmental resilience. I will champion aquaculture, small-scale agriculture, and responsible housing as key components of our growth.

By supporting infrastructure projects that align with these goals and promoting initiatives that connect our residents with sustainable practices, we can ensure that our community thrives both economically and environmentally.

- What do you see is your key role as mayor? Why are you the best person for it?

As mayor I will lead a council that meets the needs of our community, encourages planning and investment for sustainable development, and lobbies for every dollar available for our residents and businesses. My focus will be on improving the liveability of our shire and our response to natural disasters. We need council to fund the Climate Action Plan, and properly engage with residents on major decisions that affect them.

Why me? I have the financial, governance and negotiation skills, experience in large and complex organisations - both public and private, and relentless enthusiasm to make it happen.

- What do you feel is/are the main local government issue/s facing residents and ratepayers? What are you going to do about it?

The Bay Pavilions financial mess is dragging down the financial health of the whole Eurobodalla Shire. My first order of business will be to get the Pavilions on a sounder financial footing. This will be the third year where the Pavilions will lose between $3-5 million. This cash drain stops anything new happening across the whole shire.

Council cannot consider new opportunities or improve existing community services until this matter is controlled.

This is urgent. The council has not taken seriously the dire situation of the Pavilions. Summarising consultants reports from July 2023 into a 'sustainability plan' is not an action plan.

The Pavilions should be our showcase asset and available to a wider range of community groups. We should be actively seeking new income opportunities and marketing the facility. There is no reason why council can't take action right now!

- What is your main goal for the council to achieve over the coming term? What concrete actions will you pursue to achieve it?

Addressing the housing crises facing the Eurobodalla is our main goal. We need more homes and housing choices for local key workers, retirees, young people, and families to live closer to their jobs and within the communities they choose. We also need crisis accommodation for victims of domestic violence, and accommodation for the homeless and workers coming here for large projects.

Council can and should play an active role.

A Labor Council will establish an affordable housing strategy to bring the right planning controls to bear, identify appropriate infill opportunities, and get our share of state and federal government funding to support the work and build the housing.

We deserve a liveable and sustainable Eurobodalla with well designed, quality homes for all. We also need more parks, open spaces, footpaths and cycleways.

Building affordable homes grows our economy, ensures we have more public housing options, and we can house the homeless. There will be more jobs for our building trades and we can have emergency workers closer to their place of work. Young people can stay in the region because they have a better opportunity to buy their own home.

Labor supports modest levels of medium-density housing, but only once the masterplans for each town centre are drafted - underpinned by quality research and information, put to proper public consultation and accepted by the community as the best way forward.

Labor does not support the proposed high-rise development in Batemans Bay adjacent to the Princes Highway.