Let's Get Whangarei Moving

Gavin Dawson, Council Candidate for the Okara Ward, released his position paper on Infrastructure Development and Investment today. Mr Dawson’s approach focuses on developing a quality and fit for purpose transport and utilities infrastructure network, that includes all forms of transport and technology systems where possible, to make it more effective and efficient for the Whangarei District.

His approach would be funded through the increased use of targeted rates for area specific infrastructure projects, the introduction of a temporary infrastructure development charge to bring the current infrastructure network up to standard, the use of Public Private Partnerships, and other involvement of the private sector to plan and fund future infrastructure projects that the Whangarei District needs.

“A majority of ratepayers do not object to paying more rates for better infrastructure and services as long as they directly benefit from that spending. Ratepayers need to feel confident that any increases will be actually spent on what it has been allocated to, and that they will benefit from it in their lifetime. The approach I am proposing achieves this by using funding tools that make sure that infrastructure projects can be developed and built faster.”

“We must now focus on more investment in the infrastructure network to enable the District to take advantage of economic and social opportunities, and cope with forecasted growth. We must start thinking about concrete, innovative solutions and getting on with developing and improving the infrastructure network. Ratepayers want action, so let’s get on with it.”

Mr Dawson advocates the use of Public Private Partnerships (PPPs) to fund infrastructure and other anchor projects throughout the District.

“Local and central governments around the globe are using PPPs to collaborate with the private sector to get infrastructure projects built sooner. International evidence shows that PPPs work well in delivering projects of all types and sizes. PPPs will offer the District increased amounts of capital and opportunities to get the infrastructure networks it needs and deserves to improve the lives of those that live and travel throughout the District. Local and central government in New Zealand have been using PPPs successfully for some years now. The most recent examples include the Vector Arena, the Auckland waterfront redevelopment, and the Northern Motorway extension.”

Mr Dawson will be releasing his economic development, community development, and Good Governance position papers over the coming two months.

To read more about Gavin Dawson, his values, and his vision, please visit www.gavindawson.co.nz.

ENDS

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