Independent Sandra Harris runs for Budgewoi

Sandra Harris will run as an Independent in the Budgewoi ward in the September 14 Council election.

The 46-year-old mum has lived on the Coast for 45 of her 46 years and has a background in horticulture.

“For the past 14 years I have operated a small garden maintenance business working in our local community with mostly elderly and disabled.

“I am also currently studying my Certificate IV Trainers and Assessors.

“I have no affiliation with any party, group or team.

“I am solely doing this off my own bat and out of my own pocket.

“I’m hoping to influence transparency between Council and the community and bring back proper community consultation.

“Development needs to be slowed if not stopped; it’s having a detrimental impact on our environment and community.

“From what I can see the only parties that have benefited from the over-development are the developers and Council.

“Infrastructure is well behind the mark, our bushlands are disappearing, native animals are displaced and confused and people are living on top of each other – and it’s only going to get worse.

“I understand there needs to be progress and development, but it (can be done) in keeping with a community’s character.”

Harris believes a diverse range of candidates with integrity and strong community relationships can help the community make informed decisions.

“I have read many posts on social media community pages and what I take from those is that community members are disgruntled and have become untrusting of our Council and administration over the past number of years,” she said.

“I’d like to be the community’s voice in Council.

“Coming together is a beginning; keeping together is progress; working together is success.”