LOCAL BODY ELECTIONS 2022
Mandy Mayhem-Bullock
Mayor & Council
Which communities will you speak for and about at the council table?
I will advocate for all Dunedin residents as per the oath that councillors swear. I will especially advocate for marginalised groups. One of my main reasons for standing is to be the voice of diversity. Equity, inclusion and accessibility are important to me.creating a welcoming city where all of its residents feel valued and listened to.
What is the number one social and economic issue for the community and for the city? (DCC question). What is the key issue for the region at this time and for the next 10 years? (ORC question)
At the moment I think it is generally the cost of living. The housing crisis and increasing rent prices is not helping.Housing affordability is out of control. Lower socio groups are suffering, there needs to be improvements to our warm and dry homes to ensure healthy living for all of our residents.
I am concerned about the current reforms from central government , especially 3 waters. I have a lot of questions around how this will be implemented and what the price for households will be. The reforms will also change the way our council operates, I see an opportunity to really focus on Wellbeing, as per the council wellbeing Strategy.
How will you elevate community aspirations? How will you know what they are? (DCC question only)
Otepoti is experiencing rapid growth and with this increasing cultural diversity. I feel we need to engage , listen, support and represent all of our communities. I have served 6 years as an elected member on the Waikouaiti Coast community board and in this time I have represented all of our North coast communities in this role. I also advocate for the creative community , I believe Arts and culture has the power to promote inclusion,well being , equity and strengthen communities.We need to safeguard our current venues and make sure the city is a vibrant and welcoming place where all residents feel a sense of belonging
To know what motivates people and what the issues are I ask them to participate in democracy by- Voting in this election, Attending Public forums and having their say, and participating by making submissions to planning and public consultations around issues that affect us all.
I will also approach individuals, key community organisations and groups to strengthen relationships and be aware of issues they face.
Under the Local Government Act 2002, councils are required to maintain and improve opportunities for Māori to contribute to local government decision-making processes. How will you honour this obligation in your role with the Dunedin City Council/Otago Regional Council?
I support Co- Governance, I would like to see the council strengthen and embed a partnership approach to all decision making.It would be good to see mana whenua on council and committees so we have a more inclusive and diverse representation. I think all of the elected members across the sector need to undertake training and education to upskill at the start of each triennium. Without knowledge of Te reo and tikanga how can we form strong treaty partnership. I will be supporting Cultural competence training and engagement that is meaningful and respectful with mana whenua
Currently the council is working on the Maori Strategic framework, hopefully this will embed
a stronger iwi / hapu view in all planning work.
What is your usual approach to achieving collegial and constructive relationships with the people you work with? What is the most important element of a constructive working relationship?
I lead by example, I am committed to the growth, protection and enhancement of our city and the wellbeing of all our people.
Dunedin needs good decision making -I will lead a professional and collaborative Council that listens and engages. A Council that takes a holistic and strategic approach to decisions, considering social, cultural ,environmental and economic well being together
As Mayor of Dunedin my priorities will include building community resilience, harbouring greater value and enhancing the cultural and artistic community
The DCC's place-based community fund has been a game changer for community-led development and growing connected and resilient communities in Ōtepoti. What more will you do as a councillor to support community development in the city? (DCC candidate question only)
As mentioned above I feel the current reforms facing the council will change the way we operate. There is an opportunity here to focus on Wellbeing. We need to focus on the 4 strands- Social, Cultural, Economic and Environmental outcomes for all.
As Chair of Keep Dunedin Beautiful I already have a great working relationship with the Community development team.With better resourcing and input to this area we will work with community to strengthen outcomes.
Community resilience is important as we face climate change and increased weather events, we need to ensure our communities are supported, prepared and resourced.
Contact
I'm always looking for new and exciting opportunities. Let's connect.
123-456-7890
