Opinion: As one of the contenders for the four Waikato Regional Council (WRC) seats from Hamilton, I would like you to think about the environmental issues our region is facing, as your voting decision will impact our present and future generations as well.
The growth of our economy is dependent on the wellbeing of our environment, and it’s our joint responsibility to look after it. Let’s elect people into these decision-making roles who will govern for our collective wellbeing.
Having lived in Hamilton for over 18 years, I am proud to be a part of this growing, vibrant Waikato region.
As a sustainability environmental professional, my skills and experience gained over 25 years of working in regional councils – incl. Waikato Regional Council, is hands-on, evidence-driven and focused on protecting Waikato.
If I am elected, I will have the opportunity to make a positive difference to the lives of those who live in our community. I will also be able to add value that benefits the Waikato community in general and the Hamilton community in particular.
I am for swift, honest and collective action about local government reforms, how we can work smarter, collaborate better, and deliver greater value to the people we serve, without losing our local voice.
I am fully aware that standing for public office and being elected to represent the interests of our community, comes with a big responsibility that demands hard work, sacrifice and dedication. As a member of Waikato Regional Council, I will have the opportunity to make a positive difference to the lives of those who live in our community.
Historically, we spent less on water infrastructure. I will work for more wise investments and reduce ‘less-productive’ expenditure. My skills and experience will certainly add value to the role and benefit the Waikato community.
I am flexible, prioritise tasks and manage time effectively. I am a good networker also. This trait will enable me to bring to the regional council table your views. So, your voice will be heard.
We are rich in culture, heritage and spirituality. I would like to work to see our rich culture results into commerce, heritage results into hospitality and spirituality results into sustainability.
Community resilience focus is a key area of work and one of the biggest challenges that our region is facing. Changes to our climate mean we need to think about the sustainability of our existing infrastructure, both our flood scheme infrastructure and the assets they protect. I will be working with the territorial authorities in our region to understand the long-term challenges and developing targeted community adaptation plans in response.
I will work for Hamiltonians, in addition to getting value for the dollar, will focus on quality water, natural environment, biosecurity & biodiversity including climate change and flood mitigations, and affordable transport in addition to financial discipline and accountability.
I have got significant experience in governance working with communities, and am also a Justice of the Peace for New Zealand.
Use your valuable vote to support me to bring fresh thinking, practical solutions and commitment to both our environment and our economy.
The future requires a radical change and genuine partnerships. Together we can build a more sustainable Waikato. Tick for TIKKISETTY.
Bala Tikkisetty, Waikato Regional Council Candidate from Hamilton, www.balatikkisetty.com www.facebook.com/bala4wrc/
(*Authorised by Bala Tikkisetty)
Editor’s Note: The views expressed in this column, ViewPoint are the personal opinions of the writer, and do not reflect the views of NewsViews nor does it ascribe to these in any manner.
