Division 10 candidates on the town plan, the urban footprint and jobs

Redland City Bulletin reporter JUDITH KERR asked the 29 candidates in the March 19 election to answer questions on the town plan, the urban footprint and jobs. Their answers were published on the paper’s 22 February 2016 issue.

Here are the answers of the Division 10 candidates, in the order of their appearance on the ballot card.

The questions were:

1)     Do you think the current town plan process should start again?

2)    Would you approve more development in existing rural zoned areas?

3)    How would you create more jobs in the city in the next four years?

JOY STEWART

1. There is time for a newly elected Council to have further input. To start again could be irresponsible and a waste of ratepayers money.
2. Each application would be looked at on its individual merits with meaningful community consultation and consideration of environmental aspects.
3. Small to medium businesses are the employment backbone of our nation. Small, entrepreneurial start-ups, as well as established small family businesses, should be encouraged and supported by Council.  Redland City Council should  find ways to say “YES” to attracting employment opportunities, and to encouraging and nurturing the small businesses we already have.

PAUL BISHOP (Incumbent)

1. Yes. We need to review updated population projections and consider impacts of Shoreline & Toondah. Redlands should grow while enhancing our unique regional flavour.
2. No. Sprawling creates infrastructure challenges for developers in short term and community over long term. Releasing more land pulls the rug on future generations.
3. Plug any economic leakage of dollars out of our city and promote exports. Support existing local enterprises that source, produce, value-add and brand ‘Redlands Best’. Identify and profile our most innovative entrepreneurs, employers and regional attractors. Revisit Redlands Rural Futures Strategy, celebrate our healthy natural environment, community resilience and encourage bay & island industries.

Source:  http://www.redlandcitybulletin.com.au/story/3743004/learn-about-your-candidates/