Whangarei Leader insert - Election Campaign 2013

I’m standing for re- election to represent the Hikurangi/Coastal Ward with more determination than ever.

Being on WDC is a commitment. Moving our District forward is a requirement.

We all know our social statistics are not the best and our infrastructure needs are costly. With a capped debt level we need to” grow the pie” in order to meet our demands.

Our businesses are straining, our job opportunities limited and yet the district is brimming with potential.

There now is a choice to stand still or to move forward in a positive direction. I believe Council should be more enabling for smart growth and job creation. We also have to learn to do “more with less” and integrate technology more in our sometimes ancient processes.

Integrated environmental thinking, working on our unique opportunities and working as one team on Council will make a positive difference.

Look at our opportunities; Sub-tropical climate, close to Auckland, great coastline, productive farming, shake free, great sporting facilities plus some great infrastructure!

Now we need a team that will move forward without dithering. We have choices that will either move us forward, or, be “possums in the headlights”.

If we want jobs for our children, better education and other services we need to realise we have to provide an environment that people want to live in and move to.

We currently have a number of choices that could “kick start” our economy.

The “Hundertwasser” centre, the needed 4 star” Hotel development” and “Cruise ship” market are just some areas where we should get on with the job. Remember Paihia rejecting “Kelly Tarlton” from their waterfront?

Our expenditure, as set out in our LTP, is balanced and enabling. We should stop dithering!

I have a track record of success in business, governance roles in decades of community organisations, innovation, marketing and achieving results plus a wide network of people and businesses throughout NZ.

In Council however you need the right team players to make progress. The lessons learnt in my first term will enable me to do more for you and our District.

If you want positive progress, please vote for Jeroen Jongejans