Anthony Goddard’s Invited Opinion Piece

[All contactable candidates for the 2024 Tauranga election were invited to supply CityWatch NZ with an opinion piece.]

As a candidate in the upcoming Tauranga election for both Mayor and Arataki Ward Councillor, I am both honoured and excited to share my vision for our city’s future. Our local government faces several significant challenges that require immediate and strategic action. In this piece, I will address three critical issues: urban development, infrastructure, and community engagement, along with my proposed solutions to create a more vibrant, sustainable, and inclusive Tauranga.

Urban Development

Tauranga has experienced rapid growth over the past decade, leading to increased pressure on housing and urban infrastructure. While development is essential for economic growth, it is crucial to balance it with the needs of our residents and the environment. Unplanned urban sprawl can lead to loss of green spaces, increased traffic congestion, and strain on public services.

Proposed Solutions:

Smart Growth Strategies: Implementing smart growth principles can help manage urban expansion. This includes higher-density housing developments near public transport hubs, mixed-use zoning, and preserving green belts around the city.

Affordable Housing Initiatives: Partnering with developers and non-profits to create affordable housing projects can ensure that all residents have access to safe and affordable homes.

Sustainable Development: Enforcing strict environmental regulations for new developments will help protect our natural landscapes and promote sustainable living.

Infrastructure

Our city’s infrastructure is the backbone of our daily lives. However, Tauranga’s infrastructure is struggling to keep up with the demands of a growing population. Issues such as traffic congestion, inadequate public transportation, and aging utilities need urgent attention.

Proposed Solutions:

Investment in Public Transport: Expanding and improving public transportation options can reduce traffic congestion and lower carbon emissions. This includes increasing bus routes, frequency, and reliability, as well as exploring options for light rail or other mass transit systems.

Road Infrastructure Upgrades: Prioritizing the maintenance and expansion of key roadways and intersections can alleviate traffic bottlenecks and improve safety for all road users.

Modernising Utilities: Upgrading our water, sewage, and electrical systems will ensure they can support future growth and provide reliable services to all residents.

Community Engagement

Effective local government relies on active and informed citizen participation. Unfortunately, many residents feel disconnected from the decision-making processes that affect their lives. Increasing transparency and community involvement is essential for building trust and fostering a collaborative environment.

Proposed Solutions:

Enhanced Communication: Utilizing digital platforms and social media to keep residents informed about local government activities, upcoming projects, and opportunities for public input.

Community Forums: Regular town hall meetings and community forums can provide a space for residents to voice their concerns, ask questions, and engage with their elected officials.

Participatory Budgeting: Implementing participatory budgeting initiatives can give residents a direct say in how a portion of the local budget is allocated, ensuring that funding priorities reflect the community’s needs and preferences.

Conclusion

Addressing the challenges facing Tauranga’s local government requires a comprehensive and collaborative approach. By focusing on smart urban development, investing in our infrastructure, and enhancing community engagement, we can create a city that is not only prosperous but also sustainable and inclusive. I am committed to working with all stakeholders to implement these solutions and ensure a brighter future for Tauranga.

Thank you for considering my views, and I look forward to the opportunity to serve our community.