In October, local elections will be held across Christchurch. Chris Lynch Media has contacted all current Christchurch City Councillors to ask why they are seeking re-election. Each councillor was invited to respond to a series of questions about their record, priorities, and vision for the city.
Here’s what Innes Councillor Pauline Cotter had to say
Why have you decided to stand again?
I am standing again because I really enjoy representing the people of Innes and my experience around the table is helpful in addressing local issues and opportunities.
What are the most pressing issues facing your ward right now?
There are a lot of positives for Innes but one of the biggest challenges is the loss of trees due to intensification, so I fully support the Council urban forest programme to help compensate for this loss. Also, the Council’s continued investment in our parks and reserves is super important. Of course, the flooding issues in Edgeware and Shirley are big challenges, which I am supportive of finding solutions for as soon as possible, and I’m happy to have secured the $200 million for this very programme in the last Long Term Plan.
If re-elected, what are your top three priorities for the next term?
I really want to see mitigation of traffic speed and volume around the two local schools in St Albans, and through my Notice of Motion to the Community Board we will now see some progress on the renewal of Courtenay Street.
The Council bringing the parks maintenance in house has been a fantastic move. This means that the park rangers and their teams have direct contact with the community boards and community groups who are passionate about our parks and reserves. We are seeing a more agile response to any issues or ideas from the community, and it’s easier for community groups to get involved in helping in their local park.
Council landing on a rate increase of 6.6 percent is a result of incredibly hard work and determination by councillors and staff. We are all committed to making life in Christchurch as affordable as possible in the face of rising costs everywhere, yet the Council is still able to deliver incredible services to this fantastic city.
Council dealing with the wastewater treatment fire was and still is challenging and is another reflection of the calibre of staff. Landing on a solution to alleviate the stress of Bromley residents who have been suffering from the impacts of the organics processing plant for years represents a huge milestone for those residents and the city.
How would you describe your approach to representing your community?
I think it’s super important to be accessible to local residents, and I work hard at responding quickly. Knowing my community and the associated organisations is important, along with respecting local knowledge, and being able to guide people through the correct process to address issues or promote bright ideas.
Pauline Cotter at opening of the new premises for the Charitable group One Mother to Another, who collect, assemble and deliver care packages to Mothers and babies who find themselves in hospital for a prolonged period.
What has been the most challenging part of your role as a councillor?
It can be challenging being the representative for a ward, and a decision maker for the city, and this can require careful balancing. Another challenge is time management and prioritising what you can fit into a day.
What achievement are you most proud of from your time in office?
I have to say that I am very proud to see the Edgeware Pool under construction after 19 years of such hard work from the group. I am proud of the commitment and capability of the community behind this because it shows what can be done if a council is prepared to enable a community group to take charge, and if the council is prepared to walk alongside in support, which this council has done so well.
What’s currently on your Spotify playlist?
My Spotify playlist includes the awesome Marlon Williams, I love his new album. Khruangbin, L.A.B, Mark Knopfler, Kevin Morby, Dope Lemon and heaps more. I love music and am really proud of the NZ muzos we are producing.
What’s one fun or unexpected fact about you most people don’t know?
In a previous phase of my life while living in Oz I ended up working on Mad Max Beyond Thunderdome. My job, together with my associate Suzie, was to cover Aunt Entity’s tent in grey canvas and it was a big job. Our sewing machines were set up in the massive warehouse with the mechanics. We also covered the cars in cowhide. Noisy but fun.
Best café and best restaurant in Christchurch?
Christchurch has so many absolutely top class eateries and cafes I couldn’t pick a “best” in either, but I will say that Edgeware Village is right up there with the best for quality and variety. We are spoilt for choice.
