Pamela Taylor Promises Lower Rates and Stronger Governance for Dunedin

Pamela Taylor is campaigning for the position of Mayor and Councilor in Dunedin, promising to prioritize lower rates, smarter spending, and stronger community engagement. In a bid to address the rising costs and increasing council debt, Taylor is advocating for a comprehensive review of council expenditures and a focus on essential services.

Dunedin has faced challenges in recent years, including soaring rates and a growing financial burden on its residents. Taylor emphasizes that it is time for a reset in leadership that prioritizes the needs of ratepayers. Her campaign centers on protecting fundamental freedoms, including freedom of speech and choice, asserting that individuals, rather than bureaucrats, understand best how to navigate their lives and businesses.

Introducing the “Reduce Rates Dunedin” Plan

At the heart of Taylor’s campaign is the “Reduce Rates Dunedin” initiative, designed to bring tangible financial relief to residents. This plan involves a thorough review of council spending, examining every budget line, contract, and council-controlled organization (CCO) to identify inefficiencies. Taylor, if elected as mayor, intends to lead this review alongside Deputy Mayor candidate Lee Vandervis.

The primary objective is to achieve a reduction in forecast rates and council borrowing by uncovering savings within both capital and operational expenditures. “Dunedin’s future depends on smarter decisions—and I am ready to make them,” Taylor stated.

Addressing Key Infrastructure and Waste Management Issues

Taylor highlights several pressing issues that require immediate attention, including the ongoing sewage overflow problems on Surrey Street. The aging wastewater infrastructure has led to repeated health hazards in the community. As mayor, Taylor pledges to prioritize investments in South Dunedin’s wastewater system to ensure reliable infrastructure for residents.

Additionally, Taylor opposes the proposed Smooth Hill landfill project, which comes with an estimated price tag of $150 million. She argues that this plan will unnecessarily increase Dunedin’s core council debt. Instead, Taylor advocates for sending municipal waste to the existing Class 1 landfill at Winton, a more cost-effective and safer alternative.

“Smooth Hill locks Dunedin into a high-cost model that may not be viable,” she noted, emphasizing the need for a flexible waste management strategy that adapts to changing waste volumes.

To further bolster Dunedin’s financial stability, Taylor proposes a bold strategy aimed at returning the city to surplus within her first term. This strategy includes cutting unnecessary spending and focusing on essential services.

Taylor believes that the council’s financial decisions should align with community priorities. Under her leadership, non-essential projects would be paused or deferred, allowing resources to be redirected to critical services that directly benefit residents.

Empowering Local Business and Community Engagement

Recognizing that Dunedin’s economic vitality hinges on its business, tourism, and education sectors, Taylor is committed to reducing red tape for small businesses. By fostering an environment conducive to growth and collaboration, she aims to stimulate economic development.

Taylor plans to involve industry experts and community leaders in the decision-making process, ensuring that council policies reflect the real-world needs of Dunedin residents. “Leadership should be about listening, acting, and delivering,” she asserted, highlighting her approach as one based on collaboration and transparency.

As a community advocate and business leader, Taylor seeks to challenge the status quo and make decisions that prioritize the interests of the people she represents. Her campaign is rooted in respect for ratepayers, accountability in governance, and a genuine commitment to Dunedin.

A Call to Action: Your Vote Matters

The upcoming election on October 7, 2024, presents an opportunity for Dunedin residents to choose a future aligned with fiscal responsibility and community-focused governance. Taylor urges voters to support her vision for a city that is not only affordable but also one where residents can thrive.

When casting your ballot, Taylor emphasizes the importance of placing a ‘1’ next to her name. “Let’s build a Dunedin we can afford and be proud of,” she said.

This election is more than just a vote for mayor; it’s a chance to advocate for a community that works effectively for its residents. Taylor’s commitment to real change and reduced rates positions her as a candidate ready to lead Dunedin into a new era of governance.