Kelly Buchanan Standing For Onslow-Western Ward

Press Release Wednesday 11 August

Kelly Buchanan announced at the Heartbeat Wellington launch last night that she will be standing for City Council in the Onslow-Western Ward.

She will fight to keep council assets and services under public ownership and control, and retain open, green spaces in the city. "Selling off chunks of the city to private developers and profit driven corporations is not the way to maintain Wellington's uniqueness and sense of community."

Ms Buchanan believes that too much of ratepayers' money is being wasted on expensive "image" projects. Instead, the council should concentrate on practical spending and support for community groups. "Wellington is already a beautiful and vibrant city, and doesn't need a lot of marketing nonsense."

Improving public transport instead of building new roads will be a priority. She will insist that Transfund money allocated for Wellington be spent accordingly, starting with the $40 million currently planned for the "Bypass". "Petrol prices are only going to go up, and boosting public transport is the best way ease congestion and keep travel within Wellington affordable and convenient."

Housing is also an issue of concern - availability, affordability, and quality. She would like to phase in compulsory insulation standards and solar water heating wherever practical, starting with any new construction. This would more than pay for itself in the long run, in energy and health savings.

And fundamentally, the council has to listen to the people of Wellington, not just a corporate elite. "We need a council that puts people first".

Ms Buchanan is a software developer who has lived in Northland for much of her life. She is active in the peace movement and the queer community, and is a member of the Alliance Party.

ENDS

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