LOCAL BODY ELECTIONS 2022
James Cockle
Otago Regional Council
Independent
Which communities will you speak for and about at the council table?
I will speak about (not for) communities being impacted by climate change and ecological collapse and how our actions are affecting them, some of whom are powerless to influence council action. Also public transport users and those subject to high living costs and the effects of inequality.
What is the number one social and economic issue for the community and for the city? (DCC question). What is the key issue for the region at this time and for the next 10 years? (ORC question)
Water quality, soil regeneration and public transport (bus, bike and rail) I believe are the most important issues facing us right now and for the next ten years. The actions we can take now to collectively consume less and improve our environment could make things fairer, raise living standards, reduce emissions, and also mitigate the effects of climate change that we can no longer avoid. It is up to us together to decide whether to take bold action and change how we do things or continue to destroy our life support systems with business as usual.
How will you elevate community aspirations? How will you know what they are? (DCC question only)
Under the Local Government Act 2002, councils are required to maintain and improve opportunities for Māori to contribute to local government decision-making processes. How will you honour this obligation in your role with the Dunedin City Council/Otago Regional Council?
I will both support efforts to increase Maori representation on council as well as support efforts to engage with Maori groups, hapu and iwi in council decision making. I will do my best to understand and honor Te Tiriti o Waitangi, in particular with a view to respect and uphold Maori sovereignty.
What is your usual approach to achieving collegial and constructive relationships with the people you work with? What is the most important element of a constructive working relationship?
I believe honesty, integrity, trust and humour are essential to maintaining constructive relationships. If elected I would respect the opinions of others without diluting my position on the issues which voters supported me for.
The DCC's place-based community fund has been a game changer for community-led development and growing connected and resilient communities in Ōtepoti. What more will you do as a councillor to support community development in the city? (DCC candidate question only)
Contact
I'm always looking for new and exciting opportunities. Let's connect.
123-456-7890
