Albany Mayoral contest 2023: Strategies, communication and sharing the load key to clear vision for City

This year’s race to become the next City of Albany mayor is being contested by seven candidates. Every Thursday in the lead-up to the October 21 election The Advertiser will ask each candidate a key question to give our community a better insight into who they are voting for. This week we asked the candidates. Their 100-word responses have been ordered according to how the candidates will appear on the ballot paper. Lynn MacLaren Leading council well requires being clear about expectations. Listening to community and maintaining good two-way communication is vital. I’d be prepared to change my mind in the chamber after listening to other councillors and the community. Councillors are expected to attend meetings and participate in open and honest debate of the issues on their merits. This means no factions and no back room deals. Our new council must first agree on our strategic aims. If we develop a mutual understanding of where we want to go, then it’s just a matter of respectfully debating the best way to get there. Greg Stocks The Mayor is expected to lead, presenting a vision for council consideration that aligns with endorsed strategies. I will provide the opportunity for all views to be heard, aiming for consensus through briefings, community consultation, surveys, meetings, discussions, site visits and workshops to ensure all councillors are heard and fully informed. That process allows for differing views to be considered a long time before a vote is held on contentious issues. If, at the end an exhaustive process, the council opinion differs from mine as the mayor, it would be my responsibility to accept the democratic process and support the majority. Cheryl Kneebone I believe from talking to various people that what is needed to revitalise this city is a clear direction for its future, which I am sure with those elected seeing the potential for what I envision for it. If it differs from the majority view, I can only set about making the information clear cut that it is the way to go. For we must assuredly take it from its present indifference in many matters to a vital eye catching vivacity, which it surely needs, as so many have said. That none can fail to recognise the direction we must go. Matt Benson-Lidholm If elected mayor, I will join 10 other councillors in further refining the City’s Strategic Community Plan, especially in promoting our current vision statement: “Amazing Albany, where anything is possible.” Local government participation however, necessitates occasionally developing and communicating personal visions. As such, a flexible, consensus approach will bring other councillors on board, helping formulate an even better way forward for our community. Finally, I note three steps involved in moving forward. Apart from developing my own vision and communicating it, as mayor one should help develop the elected member’s visions within the group, thereby moving towards unified council goals. Scott Leary Although the mayor is a figurehead and spokesperson for Albany the role is there to combine the collective voice of council and the community, not just the mayor’s own opinion. All final decision making should be done as a collective, taking into account impacts on community, environment and the long-term benefits. Collective and consultative opinions and visions from our community will result in ownership by everyone and therefore confirm the vision. Visions and plans will always need adjustments to continue to evolve effectively. Leading by example and showing a clear path will ensure we move forward together. Ken Kelly There should only be one vision agreed to by councillors. I would request progression and adaptability be within that vision as well as reviews of council administration and decision making to ensure ongoing public confidence in council. Difference of opinion leads to robust conversation. It’s a wise and reflective person who sees merit in different views. The role of mayor is to consider councillor and community opinions and make the casting vote. I will need to be the mediator of difference and ensure the best economic, social and environmental outcomes get made for ratepayers, residents and visitors alike. Chris Thomson In resetting and refreshing how the City does business, I’ll ensure Albany sees less of its mayor and more of its councillors. I’ll encourage councillors to officiate at functions, and in locales across Albany, about which they are passionate. At times this will include speaking to the media, generally precluded at present. Councillors freed to represent at this higher level are more likely to embrace City policies, programs and projects. I’ve been a reforming councillor, and a leader, within a stable council team. A mayor who empowers councillors to be more visible in the community will encourage stability and diversity.