A byelection to elect one person to take the place of Geoff Kenny on the Rotorua District Council is under way. The Daily Post council and political reporter Matthew Martin profiles the six candidates looking for your vote in the election.
DIANNE WESTERN
What made you decide to run? I am co-chair of the Rerewhakaaitu Ratepayer Association and since I retired have taken a close interest in council. I'm not satisfied with how things are going and I think I have the knowledge to make a difference. Our councillors are out of touch.
What is the most pressing issue for Rotorua and how would you fix it?
The clean-up of the lakes and the financial situation at the airport. The airport is costing a lot for ratepayers, after we were told we weren't going to have to pay for it. This needs to be sorted out; we can't even pay the interest on it.
What would you do to improve the quality of life for Rotorua residents?
That would be a culmination of a whole lot of things ... a safe community where we reconnect with our neighbours and get involved in our community would be a good start. We have to hang tight until the world economy comes right, there's no quick fix.
In her own words: I have lived in the Rotorua district all my life. My two children are grown up and I have one grandchild. Living in Rerewhakaaitu for the past 33 years I have close ties with the rural land and community. I retired from fulltime work at the local aquatic centre four years ago. I have run my own business successfully for the last 15 years and understand books and balance sheets. I have dedicated time in the last four years to understanding
the impact of RDC decisions on residents and now wish to stand for a council seat. I support community safety initiatives, keeping rates fair and affordable as well as continued improvement of our lake water quality. I believe RDC must improve communication with ratepayers. I am honest, approachable, hard working and will listen to ratepayers' needs while balancing RDC budget decisions.
