The Greens announced their candidates for the Central Coast Council, launching the team at Gosford waterfront on Saturday, July 15.
The launch was supported by The Greens’ State MPs, Dr Mehreen Faruqi and Ms Dawn Walker
Central Coast Greens candidates will be standing on a platform that focuses on positive policies to restore democracy, improve community engagement in transparent Council decision making, and support projects and planning that lead to healthy, sustainable and liveable communities.
Cath Connor, Co-Convenor of the Central Coast Greens, said she was delighted with the team.
“We have a terrific team of candidates who will together offer voters experience, competence and a community focus,” she said.
In Gosford East the Greens team will be led by Mr Stephen Pearson, a small business owner and Chartered Accountant.
“Other candidates include retired science teacher Terry Jones and former primary school teacher, Robina Sinclair.
In Gosford West, experienced campaigner Ms Kate da Costa heads the team.
Her colleagues are Ms Wendy Rix, who has a small business background and primary school teaching career, and Ms Ruth Herman, retired cruising sailor and commercial maritime skipper, currently undertaking a Bachelor of Arts in modern history at Macquarie University.
The Greens have chosen not to contest Wyong Ward, which covers an area as far south as North Gosfrod, but are confident that excellent progressive candidates will nominate there.
The Greens have been preparing for the election for over a year, Ms Connor said.
“In January, a members’ workshop drew up a detailed set of plans to offer voters.”
Ms da Costa said that while the Greens continue to object to the forced imposition of the mega-Council, every Greens councillor will work hard with their communities to deliver better services and outcomes.
“Only the Greens have policies that will address the challenges the Central Coast faces.”
She said climate change was an example.
“Electing Greens councillors means that the Council will work harder to reduce emissions, be ready for extreme weather events and protect our environment.”
Mr Pearson highlighted the lack of democratic control consultation and transparency with the mega-council.
“Bigger is not always better,” he said.
“There are already signs that the Council is losing the plot with poor development decisions and bureaucratic mismanagement.
“For all its imperfections, democratic accountability with councillors’ oversight is absolutely essential.
“A Greens councillor is the best way a community can ensure its voice will be heard.”
Source:
Media release, Jul 18
Kate da Costa, Central Coast Greens