Making informed decisions through public engagement

Like all of you, I’m a member of the Marlborough community, a ratepayer and a citizen who uses our wonderful public amenities.

And like you, I have a view on how Marlborough could function, develop and look now and in the future. A firm view… but not a fixed view.

This is why I consider thorough public engagement to be one of the most important aspects of being Mayor.

From speaking to Marlburians, first as a Councillor and then as Mayor (but also simply as a neighbour, a friend and a community member), I appreciate that what people want from a Council is to know they are being heard.

And so they should.

Council processes, such as those around our annual and long-term plans, always take into consideration the public’s right to be involved. As Mayor, I strive to ensure that, prior to any decision making, we have done our utmost to reach every part of the community, from the voices of our future generations through the Marlborough Youth Council and use of social media to more traditional means of communication preferred by the older members of our community.

As Mayor I will continue to prioritise public engagement. Your input as a member of this region’s community is vital if we want to make decisions that are in the best interest of everyone who lives and works in, and enjoys, Marlborough.

In the normal process of revisiting how we work, I want to ensure that the way we engage with the public is still relevant, user-friendly, effective and adheres to the democratic process.

There are always going to be issues that not everyone agrees on: That’s normal, and is why open, honest and informed debate around the Council table is vital before decisions are reached.

Discussion, consultation and engagement are key to working together to ensure we are shaping a Marlborough that is strong, vibrant, healthy and a place we all want our children and grandchildren to thrive in.

As Mayor, I will always ensure that happens. Voting for me means voting for continued strong and responsible leadership, a drive for public input, experience and unfailing integrity.