Having worked across all aspects of council’s functions, I have an in-depth knowledge of how council can be improved and what people want changed.

Teamwork is important and in recent weeks I’ve discussed with the general manager and councillors how I would want things to move forward, and I’m assured I have their confidence and support.

The most obvious needed improvement is better communication, not only from the mayor in responding to inquiries, but also from council in keeping the community informed and consulted on projects.

I personally have a strong history in that regard and, for example, in recent months relations with the state member have visibly improved.

My second priority is what I call ‘community plans’, where council routinely informs each geographical community what’s upcoming from the organisation and asks them to advise on local priorities and projects.

As a councillor I’ve been pushing for that sort of collaborative improvement, but as mayor I can ensure it actually happens.

Then thirdly, underlying every other council activity is the need for greater efficiency, fewer silos, better co-ordination among the parts and therefore improved delivery without increasing rates.

Council is already moving that way but I’m keen to push the process deeper into the organisation to deliver real financial and productivity gains.

On a personal note, I will commit full-time to the mayor’s job, which can only be of benefit to the community and my record shows that.

As the mayoral election approaches, it’s important for voters to ask what each candidate is offering in a positive sense to make ours a better council.

Lisa Intemann

Mayoral candidate