Jason Bartels

1 Name three issues, specific to your division, that you will aim to fix during your term if elected and how you will do so?  

Drainage - A common problem across Division 1, water laying & flooding caused by poor drainage which is a result of a lack of maintenance to the table drains and the stormwater drainage system.  I plan on increasing the spend on the Council maintenance budget to ensure basic services are provided and maintained to an acceptable level.

Beach Foreshores - These fragile ecosystems need a combination of beautification and protection.  The Moore Park Beach Boulevard as an example is an overgrown mess. I will be proactive to obtain funding to assist with this and other projects for the benefit of Division 1.

Mosquito & Midge Control - Another common problem that is easy to overcome with a routine spraying program that I will be planning on implementing as soon as possible so residents can live in comfort and without the fear of health issues associated with these pests.

2 One consistent complaint from residents is that rates are too high.  Do you agree that rates are too high? If yes, what policies will you try introduce to keep rates at an affordable level? In your opinion, what percentage increase is fair?

Yes, rates are too high, with an average increase of 7.54% per year since 2008, ratepayers cannot afford to pay anymore.   I will fully commit to my promise of not supporting any increase to the general rates in my term in Council.  By analysing the current balance sheets and annual reports, I have found many ways that money can be saved and better utilised.  Think of what could be achieved if all of Council worked on a way forward that didn't include increasing rates. This should be a common goal of Council that we could all be working towards.

3 Finish this sentence. Vote for me on March 19 because...

I will provide strong representation for Division 1, and will make myself available to hear your concerns and views.  With my vision, plans and experience I will strive to ensure that our region remains an attractive & affordable place to live but still promoting and enabling growth and opportunities.  I am running for Council as a complete independent with no ties, affiliations, support, or arrangements made with any political party, group or team.  Your vote for me will ensure that you have a strong independent voice in Council who will speak to and for everyone.  "A Change for the Better"

Alan Bush

1 Name three issues, specific to your division, that you will aim to fix during your term if elected and how you will do so?

I stand on the motto "never promise anything you can't deliver".

After listening to the residents and ratepayers the three main things I would like to support are the continuation of the Roadworks program and to channel a greater endeavour into a number of drainage concerns raised by the residents in Division 1. Keep the maintenance program on all our roads and streets to a good standard. Maintain the satisfactory opening hours at our dumps, even if it means the general funds of council has to support the cost. It takes at least five other councillors to support your issues and ideas before you can achieve anything. At least six councillors to win the motion.

2 One consistent complaint from residents is that rates are too high. Do you agree that rates are too high? If yes, what policies will you try introduce to keep rates at an affordable level? In your opinion, what percentage increase is fair?

Some people believe rates, charges and taxes are all too high. The answer to your question is; people are asking for better services and infrastructure without increasing rates. This is impossible. Apart from working smarter together to get the best outcome for your rateable dollar. The fixed inflation cost to council is approximately 4.5%. To lower the increase in rates, council would have to trim services to suit the council income.

As an experienced Councillor and Agri-business owner, I am not afraid to make the right choices.

3 Finish this sentence. Vote for me on March 19 because...My ability to communicate with the residents and work through council for a better outcomes My experience as a councillor to continue to lobby higher levels of government to fund infrastructure to keep pace with expected population growth.

Take advantage of free trade deals for job creation and bring more business to the region. My life-long service to the community through many voluntary organisations aids in keeping me well informed.

Greg Messenger

1 Name three issues, specific to your division, that you will aim to fix during your term if elected and how you will do so?  

Division one has indicated that their areas are neglected and the share of the works appear to be minimal. I will investigate how works are prioritised and apply safety first decisions to fast track areas of concerns.

Lack of communication and council information is another discussion point.

I will be knocking on resident's doors and meeting face to face. I will be attending community meetings and gatherings on a regular basis. You will have a Detailed Community report of my activities available Mthly. I will conduct a Quarterly Division forum in your area. I will thoroughly represent all of Bundaberg residents.

Residents need better services for the current rates.  "More bang for our buck".  Four free tip days per year - Rate Payers will be given 4 tickets to redeem over the 12mths. The tickets will be added to the rates notice. Charges to Green Waste will be discounted/exempt for clean green waste.

2 One consistent complaint from residents is that rates are too high.  Do you agree that rates are too high? If yes, what policies will you try introduce to keep rates at an affordable level? In your opinion, what percentage increase is fair?

Yes, Rates are increased too high.

I fully understand that the revenue from the rates funds the regions improvements, however, the rates should be kept in line with inflation and if they continue to increase at the rate they are people will be forced out of their homes unable to keep up the payments.

My primary role in my current position is to ensure my Company is consistently lean and working at saving in all areas. If elected I will apply the same Robust Financial decisions to all areas. Eg reduce duplication, essential services first and foremost, safety first decision making, and having a clean, safe environment.

3 Finish this sentence. Vote for me on March 19 because...

I am a 3^rd Generation Bundaberg born and bred. I am intimately familiar with the Regions Strengths,

I will promote these strengths and opportunities at every given chance. I have lived, worked and played not only in my division but all of the Bundaberg area and have made a lifetime commitment to raise my family here. I will apply the knowledge and experience I have gained in my working career to every decision. I will communicate constantly and fully represent the people of Bundaberg.

Voting for me will ensure you have a healthy, engaged and fully responsive voice in council.