Candidates' meeting and garden makeover project

[dem...@clear.net.nz]

Hi people on the TT Opotiki Coast List

Only about six of us could make it to Green Drinks last Thursday where we had a brief discussion about whether the TT group should arrange a meeting for October inviting all Party candidates in the district. The thinking is that - just like eg Grey Power/Forest and Bird/Plunket etc we are an apolitical organisation with members who have a range of political affiliations (or none) - we need to hear where various parties stand on issues which are of concern to us. It is also a process by which we can let political Parties know what WE think are important issues!

 So we can 'educate' candidates on important issues as well - especially if collectively we think up half a dozen questions & submit these in advance to candidates eg "What would your party do about....? if you were in government". We have no idea what the outcome of the election will be - but whoever gets in from our district - in government or opposition - we want them to know what we think!

Is this a good idea? Please share your thoughts with this list. If okay I will undertake to organise it eg contact all parties and try and find a date when all or most candidates can come.

One more thing - talking to John about the garden makeover project (initial mentoring of people who want to learn how to put in a veg garden) - he is a bit snowed under right now for supporting the project and didn't seem to be sure of who else is actively involved. I am a bit worried about it falling on Kazel's shoulders - especially as she is getting the Food Co op going. Ted and I could help - though we live out of town - is anyone else available to organise this? Does anyone have seed maori potatoes to sell - we need some?

Cheers

Lynne Dempsey

Lynne Dempsey

[wainuikelly]

Two questions I would put to the candidates are:

1. Like many small towns in NZ, Opotiki is a net importer of food,
commodities and energy. Having a relatively small and remote
population, prices are at a premium and beyond our control. The supply
and quality of these is also out of our control.
What policies does your party have in place to specifically help towns
like Opotiki to insulate themselves from the effects of soaring food
and energy prices?

2. Local initiatives to design and build eco-friendly homes, sell
produce, recycle materials, generate energy etc are often hindered by
legislation, bylaws, consent procedures etc. Does your party have any
policy to address the layers of bureaucracy that hinder the local
economy and self-determination?