Fran Wilde
What is the main reason you are standing for Council or the Community Board?
South Wairarapa desperately needs experienced leadership. Cliches won’t help us now. The Council is a complex business with significant problems largely caused by previous lack of knowledge and understanding at the top. I have a track record of getting things done.
What previous experience have you had in managing within a business, government agency and/or in any governance role.
I have managed and governed at top level (i.e. CE, Chair) in the private and public sectors, including very small and very large businesses. I have been a Minister and Mayor so understand the legal hoops – and how to ensure the Council’s impact is positive and optimised. Also, my extensive networks in central government and the private sector will be vital to help South Wairarapa recover.
What are the three most critical issues that you feel need to be addressed in South Wairarapa?
Long delayed infrastructure is crippling our local economy and forcing up rates. There are no easy answers but the idea of a 3% rates cap sought in the petition to Council is unrealistic and won’t help get our businesses working again.
As a result of the infrastructure issue (no new building consents being issued in Martinborough or Greytown) our economy is stagnating. This is also impacting socially – hammering many families and retirees on fixed income.
To help fix this, the Council culture urgently needs resetting
What do you think are the main impediments to progress in the South Wairarapa?
Lack of leadership and momentum. Without experienced leadership, decisions are delayed and costs mount up. Running a council is very different from running a small business.
What do you believe could be done to boost business and increase employment in the South Wairarapa?
I have many ideas and am already working with different groups. Although the private sector will drive much of this, the Council must be transparent, “can do” and prepared to proactively work with the private sector to promote growth.
We urgently need to attract inward investment and to develop new businesses and tourism attraction. Obviously, we also need improved infrastructure (e.g. roads, rail, water, electricity, broadband) and again the Mayor and Council must actively work with others to ensure it happens.
