Local Businessman Barry Jensen Aims to Revitalize Howick Ward

Barry Jensen, a local businessman, is vying for one of the two seats representing the Howick ward on the Auckland Council in the upcoming local elections. At 35 years old, Jensen brings over a decade of experience in business management, aiming to address pressing community issues with a straightforward approach: “Fix what matters.”

Jensen, the founder of multiple service-oriented businesses including Jensen Commercial Cleaning, Cleanstay, and Bad Offroad, emphasizes his problem-solving skills over political experience. He believes that the council’s current processes are ineffective, resulting in delayed or neglected basic services. Jensen highlights issues such as broken footpaths and unsafe playgrounds that have persisted for months, asserting that residents deserve better.

Campaign Principles Focused on Community Needs

His campaign revolves around a four-step governance approach:

1. **Listen** – Engaging genuinely with residents to understand their concerns.
2. **Prioritise** – Focusing on significant issues rather than distractions.
3. **Fix** – Taking decisive action to ensure completion of projects.
4. **Follow through** – Maintaining accountability among council members and stakeholders.

Jensen’s business background informs his commitment to effective governance. He states, “It’s how I run my businesses – and it’s how I’ll serve this community.” His perspective is shaped by his journey from Zimbabwe to New Zealand, where he settled in Howick with his wife and sons in 2022.

Jensen’s experience in building successful businesses has given him a unique understanding of the importance of reliable systems and the consequences of their failure. He expresses frustration with the current political climate, suggesting that council operations often prioritize public relations over tangible results.

A Call for Action and Community Engagement

In his view, local governance should not be driven by party politics or headlines but should focus on delivering real outcomes for residents. Jensen insists on the necessity of having leaders who prioritize action and accountability over bureaucratic inefficiencies.

“Let’s fix what matters together!” he urges, inviting community members to engage with his campaign. As he prepares for the local elections, Jensen’s message resonates with many residents who are eager for change and improved services in Howick.

For more information, Barry Jensen can be reached at [email protected] or by phone at 021 615 424. His campaign details are available on his website, www.barryjensen.nz.