Shaping Kiama's Future: visions and priorities from council candidates
Donna Portland
24 August 2024, 6:55 AM
The Bugle attended the Kiama Business Chamber’s ‘Meet the Candidates’ event on Thursday 22 August evening at the Pavilion. A crowd of around 70 people gathered to hear seven of the eight groups speak. First and second from each group sat on stage, with the lead candidate having five minutes to put across their ideas. This is all the information, so if you couldn't manage to attend, you'll get what you need here!
Group A: Independent Cameron McDonald highlighted that his team is a dynamic coalition of dedicated individuals who live by the mantra, “Community minded, business focused.”
He outlined five key priorities for his campaign: strengthening Council’s finances, enhancing infrastructure, promoting sustainable development, devising a comprehensive growth and housing strategy, and eliminating politics from local government to ensure a transparent and resident-centred Council.
McDonald, a practicing lawyer with a Graduate Diploma of Applied Finance and Investment, currently serves as the President of the Kiama & Districts Business Chamber. He acknowledged the precarious financial situation of the Council and emphasised the need for corrective action to restore fiscal health. To this end, he proposed establishing a financial advisory committee to engage the community in strategic discussions.
On the topic of infrastructure, McDonald made the point that loading up the local community with the constant cost of repair of Jamberoo Mountain Road isn't sustainable. He suggested petitioning the NSW Government to either pay for repairs up front or take over the maintenance of the road. It's an unreasonable cost borne by Council. This road is "critical" for maintaining connectivity between the LGA and the highlands. He also addressed the ongoing consultation on the Growth & Housing Strategy, stressing the importance of reviewing Local Environmental Plans to ensure they align with community needs.
During the Q&A session, when asked about housing affordability, McDonald, who spoke last, acknowledged the valid points raised by other speakers and emphasised the need for a structured mechanism to guide developers, ensuring conditions that promote diversity in housing options.
The next query focused on the future development of Bombo Quarry and whether alternative proposals should be considered. McDonald argued that this site is vital to the LGA’s goal of adding 3,500 homes over the next 20 years, with the potential to accommodate 2,000 homes within the quarry. He emphasised the importance of guidance from the state MP for Planning, while also advocating for community forums to shape the development in a way that fosters business activity and community diversity.
The final question, concerning the vision for the LGA’s future, especially in relation to the business community, was answered by Melissa Matters, third on the ticket. She expressed strong support for a 24-hour economy, night-time trade, and the “Brand Kiama” initiative. Matters lamented the challenges faced by the Co-op in Gerringong, whose development application for a music venue was initially rejected by the previous Council, forcing them to fight for approval. She believes that the local youth are particularly eager for live music and the sense of community it fosters.
Group B: Independent, Alan Smith was unable to attend due to a pressing family matter.
Group C: Sitting Independent Councillor Matt Brown outlined his vision, branding his ticket as "a sensible choice" for the upcoming election.
He began by introducing his team, a diverse group in terms of age, background, and education, united by their commitment to building on Kiama’s strengths and vibrancy. Brown emphasised that his team’s primary goal is to restore the Council’s finances and address other critical issues facing the community.
To enhance Kiama’s vibrancy, he envisions creating an entertainment precinct that not only supports small businesses but also transforms the area into a lively destination for nightlife.
Brown highlighted Kiama’s recent accolade as the NSW Top Tourist Town and mentioned the upcoming competition for the national title, underscoring the importance of maintaining the town’s appeal and vibrancy.
In addition to financial stability, Brown stressed the importance of street safety and job security. He believes that diversifying Kiama’s economy is essential for creating local opportunities and addressing the housing challenges that have been a growing concern.
During the Q&A session, when asked about housing affordability, Brown acknowledged the lack of diversity in the current housing stock, noting that much of the existing housing is outdated and in need of modernisation. He agreed that there are insufficient options for singles and stressed the need for concerted efforts to develop affordable housing solutions.
Regarding the future development of Bombo Quarry, Brown described it as a "wonderful opportunity," but cautioned that it is "not a silver bullet." He emphasised the importance of getting the development right, noting that the draft master plan still has many unresolved issues and questions that need to be addressed.
The final question about the LGA’s future, particularly in relation to the business community, was answered by Danielle Steele, the second candidate on Brown’s ticket. Steele pointed out that the local business activity typically winds down by 2pm, missing out on the potential income that extended trading hours could bring, especially in a tourist town. She advocated for a greater focus on IT and reducing wait times for development applications, to streamline the approval process for business-related plans and encourage growth.
Group D: Labor Councillor and Deputy Mayor Imogen Draisma emphasised the importance of intergenerational change in her address.
She highlighted the experience she and fellow Councillor Stuart Larkins, who is second on the ticket, have gained over their years of service. This experience, she noted, has prepared them to tackle the challenges ahead with a renewed focus.
Draisma underscored the need to address the Performance Improvement Order (PIO), restore the Council’s financial stability, and critically review Council services. She stressed that Kiama requires a strategic path forward, including identifying alternative income sources beyond rates to sustain the Council’s operations.
Expressing concern about the lack of housing diversity, particularly for young people struggling to find homes near their workplaces, Draisma reminded the audience of Kiama’s target of 900 new homes over the next five years. She emphasised that these homes must be strategically located and acknowledged the significant work still to be done. Draisma suggested leveraging community land and collaborating closely with the state government to achieve these goals.
During the Q&A session, when asked about housing affordability, Draisma highlighted that social housing is a major focus for the NSW state government, which is exploring various affordable housing options, including rental, rent-to-buy, and purchase opportunities. She pointed out that Kiama’s current housing stock lacks the diversity needed to accommodate the full spectrum of the community’s needs. Draisma advocated for Council’s active involvement in discussions about housing accessibility and composition, ensuring that future plans are adapted to enable residents to "age in place."
In Q&A’s when questioned about the future development of Bombo Quarry, Councillor Stuart Larkins reaffirmed Labor’s unwavering support for the project. He noted that several motions had already been passed in Council, and numerous stakeholders, including Boral and Transport for NSW, are involved in the project, which is of a scale that qualifies it as a state development. While acknowledging that the Council’s role may be somewhat limited, Larkins stressed the importance of ensuring that the community remains an integral part of the planning process and that much work remains to be done.
In response to the final question regarding his vision for the LGA’s future, particularly concerning the business community, Larkins acknowledged the challenges of predicting the future of small businesses but recognised their role as the backbone of the local economy. He expressed a desire to see the development of a night-time entertainment precinct and the growth of IT-based businesses. Larkins also voiced strong support for women in business, noting their significant representation in the community.
Group E: Melinda Lawton, leading the Greens team, “Standing up for What Matters”, revealed her long-time residence in the community since 1976, and expressed her deep commitment to ensuring that the Kiama LGA remains a vibrant and desirable place to live.
Lawton emphasised the need for good governance and accountable leadership within the Kiama Council. She is passionate about re-establishing community groups and fostering engagement with business leaders, with the goal of strengthening the local economy and regaining financial stability.
At the top of her team’s priority list are parking and transportation improvements to support both visitors and workers commuting from outside the area. Their focus extends to enhancing transport infrastructure to meet these needs.
Addressing the pressing issue of housing affordability and availability, Lawton acknowledged the significant stress it has placed on residents struggling to find suitable homes. She is a strong advocate for innovative and sustainable solutions to meet the region’s housing demands.
Lawton also highlighted what makes the Kiama LGA unique - its subtropical rainforest. She underscored the importance of preserving and caring for this natural treasure as a top priority. Additionally, she advocated for the retention of agricultural land and the preservation of villages and beaches, recognising their value not only as ecological assets but also as crucial components of the local economy.
Lawton concluded by emphasising the need to strike a balance between supporting businesses and keeping the needs of residents at the forefront of the Council’s priorities.
During the Q&A session, when asked about housing affordability, Lawton described it as a complex social issue, cautioning against falling into a trap of inaction. She stressed the importance of addressing homelessness, housing stress, and financial stress, noting the toll these issues are taking on mental health.
In response to a question about the future development of Bombo Quarry, Lawton expressed strong support for the project, recognising its potential to transform the Bombo community and meet a wide range of housing needs. However, she emphasised that much groundwork remains, including GeoTech reports and planning for infrastructure and transport. Lawton also advocated for considering other areas for development in the short term, as the full realisation of the quarry project could take time. "We need to start addressing this now, not just in 10-15 years’ time," she urged.
Answering the final question regarding her vision for the LGA’s future, particularly for the business community, Lawton expressed a desire to enhance Kiama’s nighttime vibrancy, noting the limited opportunities currently available. She is enthusiastic about promoting creative arts and theatre and supports ongoing efforts to market Kiama as a must-visit destination.
Group F: Independent Mike Cains emphasised his team’s commitment to “A fresh start for Kiama,” highlighting the Kiama LGA as an exceptional place to raise a family and build a business.
Drawing from his own experience with Pecora Dairy, which he founded from scratch and grew into a nationally recognised and award-winning business, Cains underscored his ability to bring people together, solve problems, and get things done - skills honed during his previous corporate career. He expressed a strong desire to foster a constructive and respectful culture within the Council moving forward.
Cains, a board member of the Kiama & Districts Business Chamber and one of the founders of the highly successful farmers’ market, outlined his focus for Kiama in three key areas:
- Professional and Collaborative Council: Cains expressed his frustration with the petty squabbling that hindered the previous Council's effectiveness. His initial priority will be to promote a collaborative and professionally conducted Council, ensuring that personal conflicts do not obstruct progress.
- Improving Liveability: He emphasised the need to enhance local schools, create more job opportunities, and improve amenities to make Kiama an even better place to live.
- Sustainable Development: Addressing the need for diverse housing options, Cains stressed the importance of catering to singles, couples, and other underserved groups, noting that the current housing stock is predominantly large, 4-bedroom homes. He advocated for an active approach, including an advocacy plan and seeking grants from state and federal governments, to ensure future developments meet the community’s needs.
During the Q&A session, when asked about housing affordability, Cains elaborated on the critical need for a wider variety of dwellings, particularly for singles, couples, youth, elderly, service workers, and those on lower incomes. He pointed out that only 17 percent of current housing in the LGA meets these needs. “We must change what we build,” Cains insisted, using smaller towns like Jamberoo as an example, where smaller residences could allow older residents to maintain their independence without leaving the area.
In response to a question about the future development of Bombo Quarry, Cains expressed enthusiasm for the concept, seeing it as an opportunity to create an exemplary new community. However, he criticised the current plan as inadequate, stating, “We have a blank slate, and we need to do much better with the plans.”
Answering the final question about his vision for the LGA’s future, particularly for the business community, Cains spoke with pride about his long-standing involvement with the Business Chamber and his love for Kiama. He is optimistic about the future, envisioning “Brand Kiama” being bolstered by Arts & Culture initiatives and festivals that could invigorate the local economy. Cains also suggested expanding business offerings during the off-season and highlighted sports tourism as a key area for growth, mentioning beach Oztag, the Kiama 7s, surfing, and developing coastal walks to attract hikers and nature lovers.
Group G: Independent Yasmin Tatrai addressed the crowd, emphasising that her team “Energy and Experience: Getting Council back on track” comprises seasoned business professionals who excel at reading spreadsheets and understanding the importance of financial management.
She stressed that improving Council’s performance hinges on fixing the budget. The team is committed to keeping rates low while maintaining essential services, and they see the development of Bombo Quarry, in collaboration with Gareth Ward, as a promising solution to the housing crisis.
Gail Morgan, second on the ticket, spoke with passion about the immense task of restoring order and accountability within the Council. She underscored the urgent need for transparency and the restoration of trust - values that resonate with many in the LGA. Morgan expressed concern about unchecked development and advocated for a community public forum where residents can discuss their concerns openly and honestly. She suggested prioritising "honesty over protocol," emphasising the importance of genuine dialogue. Morgan also highlighted the need to harness the abundant local skills and talent within the community, proposing a model that includes contributions from all residents.
Morgan has been a vocal advocate for establishing an arts centre in the LGA, recognising its potential to enrich the community culturally and socially.
During the Q&A session, when asked about housing affordability, Tatrai reiterated their solution: developing Bombo Quarry in partnership with the state government. She emphasised that this project is crucial for addressing the region’s housing needs.
In response to a question about the future development of Bombo Quarry, Morgan agreed that the community deserves a better plan than what Boral has proposed. She cautioned against allowing developers to dominate the process and stressed the importance of ensuring the final result truly benefits the community. She referenced a promising concept by Peter O’Neill that, while interesting, hadn't fully addressed the community’s needs.
Answering the final question about her vision for the LGA’s future, particularly for the business community, Morgan spoke about the potential for a future centred on service and entertainment industries. She voiced concerns about the LGA’s current overreliance on tourism, noting that it doesn’t foster a strong sense of community cohesion, as many locals are wary of the influx of tourists. Morgan proposed the creation of a local arts centre - a vibrant space for musicians, artists, and youth, which could serve as a cultural hub in a town currently lacking even a town hall or cinema. She envisioned this centre as a place for the community to gather, showcase talents, and engage in meaningful dialogue, particularly during festive seasons like Christmas and New Year.
Group H: Sitting councillor Mark Croxford introduced his team as "Your community candidates" emphasising their commitment to getting back to basics: Roads, Rates, Rubbish, and Recreation.
He underscored the importance of addressing the fundamental needs of the community, such as repairing local roads and key arterial routes like Jamberoo Mountain Road. Croxford expressed concern that the current Council isn’t doing enough, largely due to insufficient funding. His priorities include improving road safety, enforcing parking time limits to generate revenue, maintaining stable rates and services, and exploring sensible development that enhances recreation while accommodating the influx of visitors contributing to the local population boom. He also highlighted the need for funding to develop the local foreshore.
During the Q&A session, when asked about housing affordability, Croxford acknowledged the widespread nature of the issue, noting that property prices in Kiama are 15 times the median income. He lamented the high construction costs – 42 percent higher than expected - and the inevitable delays in Development Application (DA) approvals. To address these challenges, he advocates for increased approvals for one-bedroom units, which could help alleviate the housing crisis.
In response to a question about the future development of Bombo Quarry, Croxford identified the two primary stakeholders, Boral and Sydney Trains, as key players in the project. He pointed out that the main obstacle is Sydney Trains, which has yet to secure an alternative site for its quarrying needs, thereby stalling progress. Croxford suggested that the adjoining parcels of land could be utilised first, although he noted that the current master plan doesn’t account for these areas.
When asked about his vision for the LGA’s future, particularly regarding the business community, Croxford argued that the area needs to evolve beyond being known as "the coffeeshop capital of the South Coast." He called for an amendment to the local environment plan that would offer businesses a framework of incentives to hire more locals, thereby fostering economic growth. Croxford also emphasised the need to leverage the region’s strong technology and connectivity infrastructure to drive business opportunities.
In closing, members of the Kiama & Districts Business Chamber expressed their gratitude to all the speakers and summarised the key issues discussed: Infrastructure, Financial Concerns, Roads/Rates, Housing, and Local Business.
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