A year since election and it's a whirlwind

Palmerston North city councillor Gabrielle Bundy-Cooke.

Facebook has reminded me it was just 12 months since my election signs and banners went up. Yes, just one year ago.

It has been a whirlwind. I have learnt a lot.

Palmerston North people are diverse, passionate and compassionate. They are of course, concerned with matters that affect them directly in their daily lives, homes, properties, businesses, neighbourhoods and communities.

Councillors take their representative responsibilities very seriously.

As a councillor with responsibility for Rural and Villages, I'm concerned with issues facing Bunnythorpe. It's a village steeped in history, with a "we'll push through" mentality.

I continue to support Bunnythorpe's beautiful school and am keen for this vital community asset to remain.

The impacts of the Gorge Rd closure on Ashhurst have commanded Council's attention with councillors and officers working closely with the NZ Transport Agency and community groups.

The entrepreneurial spirit of those selling hot coffee and yummies is to be applauded.

As a councillor with responsibility for our central business district, I was delighted at the increased foot traffic and vibrancy the Winter Festival and Lions Rugby Tour brought to our city. Free parking initiatives have played their part too, having a positive impact on the city's cash registers.

The Palmy Unleashed initiative will create more vibrancy like this. There is a desire at Council to become more agile in responding to new ideas. Simplifying processes, such as enabling events in public spaces, will have a positive impact on our community wellbeing. Council will continue to look for opportunities to be more can-do to support diversity, innovation and collaboration.

Personally I have been busy supporting as many good causes as possible. I believe that if we support community, then community supports us.

I manage my own business under this philosophy. Just like you, I love Palmerston North and will stand tall for it every day.

Gabrielle Bundy-Cooke is a Palmerston North city councillor, whose portfolios include Rural and Villages and CBD and Retail.