Canal Ward:

Facebook: Rhonda Clark Lake Ward candidate

I am a local resident of over 15 years and have thoroughly enjoyed living in both East St Kilda and Elwood.

We are truly lucky to reside in such a diverse and vibrant community with unique features such as the beach, Elwood canal, parks, community gardens, markets and festivals.

As many of you can probably relate to, I received “bill shock” when my rates notice arrived. I knew my property was not valued at the price the Council determined.

While working through the process to receive a more fair and reasonable valuation I was left wondering how we can all continue to afford living in our wonderful suburbs.

I then found myself questioning the Council’s priorities for our local community. I am concerned about how our Councillors make their decisions.

They fail to put the resident’s needs first.

I am disturbed that Councillors are focused on issues that do not relate to local government and divert their attention from positively improving the amenity and vibrancy of our neighborhoods.

Our suburb requires a capable and committed Councillor who represents the views of the residents and whose sole decision-making criteria is determined in the best interests of residents.  I am that person.

I will ensure that all council actions are:

• sustainable from a financial point of view, so residents of all means can continue to live in our great community  
• and that they enhance the liveability of our suburb

Once vibrant streets, like Carlisle St Balaclava, have fallen victim to the Council’s indifference to the community. This is unacceptable.

I must admit that my politics are liberal, however I do not believe politics belongs in local Government.  I have chosen to represent the Ratepayers of Port Phillip (RoPP), who are a community group of locals concerned about local issues.  RoPP have members from all over the community who have a common belief in influencing Council to build agendas to:

• represent the community
• promote fiscal responsibility and
• demand that precious ratepayer funds are used for local council business

I have a lifetime of experience managing at senior levels the strategies and processes of large organisations. My core roles have always been to deliver customer focused adaptable commercial outcomes. I promise to put my expertise at work for you.

We need our council to refocus on the basics of delivering fundamental services to the community coupled with a sensible rates structure that is affordable.