James Brodie
What is the main reason you are standing for Council?
I have been a member of the Martinborough community since 1996 and have lived, worked and played here very happily. I think it would be good to give some time back.
I see that my role is to listen carefully to the community and along with the other members of the Community Board actively promote solutions to the issues that individuals, local organisations and businesses are faced with. A good working relationship with Councillors and Council officers will be essential. The Board needs to be future focussed.
What previous experience have you had in managing within a business, government agency and/or in any governance role?
I have had a varied career in the education sector including special education and polytechnic management roles. I have developed and written policy documents for a number of government agencies. I have considerable experience of trying to turn a profit in the Polytech sector under sinking funding policies. This should be useful for participating in the local authority sector.
After arriving in Martinborough, Ann and I set up a vineyard and olive grove in Dublin Street and operated a cellar door and event venue for 18 years.
What are the three most critical issues that you feel need to be addressed in the South Wairarapa?
The affordability of rates increases for the community as a whole. Recent increases have been extremely high and proposed infrastructure costs associated with water and waste water will make rates unaffordable for many residents.
I am particularly interested in the challenges Council faces implementing a waste water treatment solution that is both affordable, non-polluting and fit for future population growth. The local rivers are heavily polluted and Lake Wairarapa is under considerable pressure.
It is time that a comprehensive cycle and walking plan was developed. It should be developed by the community, and where possible, implemented by local people to minimise costs and utilise the services and capabilities within the district. The business viability of the town is dependent on tourism.
What do you think are the main impediments
to progress in the South Wairarapa?
Infrastructure costs
What do you believe could be done to boost business and increase employment in the South Wairarapa?
I actually don’t have an answer for this at this stage apart from drawing in more permanent residents to the Southern Wairarapa, which will mean reducing the subdivision red tape and encouraging the small to medium business to invest in the SWDC area.
