Candidate statement - Philip Bingley

Phil Bingley

COUNCIL election candidate Philip Bingley has sent me the following statement for publication. Other candidates seeking election in our municipality are welcome to do the same.

"I have lived in New Norfolk and worked in local government for over 30 years, and am passionate about New Norfolk and the Derwent Valley. I have a wealth of experience in public health, building surveying, planning, natural resource management, environmental management and waste management - to bring to council.

"As a Tasmanian Greens candidate I want to bring green values to council - values that respect both our natural and built environments. Our Valley has a wonderful heritage, with buildings such as Willow Court and the Barracks. I will fight to preserve those heritage values while promoting the area as a great opportunity for future commercial, residential and tourism enterprises.

"If elected I will advocate for:

• A "rates strategy" aimed at ensuring that future rate increases never repeat this year's 10-20% increases endured by some ratepayers after government revaluations;
• A long overdue "economic development plan" aimed at supporting and promoting valley businesses, industry and jobs;
• A comprehensive "financial management plan" aimed at reducing council's growing loan obligations.

"I will never support or vote for an annual budget or rate increase unless a thorough annual review has been undertaken of all discretionary council spending. My priority will be that council must adequately fund its core responsibility of maintaining our streets and roads - the ratepayers' major asset."

All Derwent Valley Council election candidates are invited to send me their details for publication on this website. Profiles, policy statements and photographs are welcome. Email: damianbester@gmail.com

Please note: Following the issuing of the notice of election, comments relating to the election must include the given name, surname and locality of the writer. Anonymous comments cannot be published.