As Kiama Council faces its upcoming elections, it is crucial for candidates to demonstrate a commitment to the long-term best interests of the community rather than pursuing quick wins to appease residents.

Here are three pressing challenges that require dedicated and strategic governance:

The need for long-term sustainable development often clashes with the pressure to secure short-term solutions that win votes. This focus on immediate gains leads to Band-Aid fixes rather than addressing the root causes of issues. Candidates must prioritise a cohesive and strategic vision for Kiama's future, ensuring decisions made today benefit the community for years to come.

Consistent and stable long-term planning is essential for the successful completion of development projects. However, new administrations frequently alter or cancel ongoing projects, creating inconsistency and uncertainty. These policy reversals disrupt progress and waste resources, underscoring the need for candidates who can commit to a steady, well-planned approach.

Effective governance requires a strategic long-term vision, which is often compromised by the election cycle's pressures. The council needs leaders who can look beyond immediate political gains and focus on sustainable growth. This includes developing policies that balance economic development with environmental conservation and social equity.

The future of Kiama hinges on the choices we make today. It is imperative that we elect leaders who are not only committed to the long-term well-being of our community but also equipped with the expertise to navigate complex financial and developmental challenges. By demanding accountability and strategic vision from our council candidates, we can avoid the pitfalls of short-term fixes and build a prosperous, sustainable future for all residents. The time for decisive, visionary leadership is now. Our community deserves nothing less.

Probing Questions for Local Council Candidates

Given the financial and administrative challenges faced by Kiama Council, candidates should be prepared to address their commitment to long-term strategies and their expertise in sustainable development.

Candidates must provide clear answers to these critical questions:

1.     What is your commitment to implementing best practice housing and growth strategies that prioritise long-term sustainability over short-term political gains?

2.     Can you provide specific examples of your experience in managing large-scale budgets and ensuring financial stability within multi-million-dollar organisations?

3.     What areas of expertise do you bring to the table in urban planning, sustainable development, and financial management?

4.      How do you plan to ensure that ongoing and future projects remain consistent and stable, avoiding the pitfalls of policy reversals with each new administration?

5.     What strategies will you implement to balance economic development with environmental conservation and social equity, ensuring comprehensive and inclusive governance for Kiama?

By addressing these questions, we can ensure that our council is led by individuals dedicated to long-term, sustainable development, securing a prosperous future for Kiama.