Reg Kidd
Reg Kidd
Independent
Agricultural and natural resource management consulting and training
Where do you stand on:
Rates: While Orange has incredible community assets they come at a cost. Some rates I cannot agree with ie the green waste levy of $80 and the estimated $70 to $80 for the pipeline. These will put Orange rates even higher and many people are at breaking point.
Would you ever vote for a special rate increase above the cap set by the state government?
No I would not vote for a special rate, we must live within our means. It is about priorities!
Conservation versus development: I believe in having the necessary checks and balances for urban development to ensure it is sustainable.
Macquarie Pipeline: Would you vote to halt the pipeline project? (yes or no)
Proper due diligence must be done on this project and all possibilities for increasing storage and supply. The first priority must be strengthening and raising the dam wall.
I was responsible for getting this council to do a integrated water plan, with many of the council saying Orange had no problems then or in the future. But, we must communicate, consult and research, and not use scaremongering tactics and misinformation to give only one side of the story or possibilities. Must be transparent and genuine. I am still awaiting answers to several questions.
What major capital works do you think Orange needs?
Strengthen and raise the dam, it is top priority.
What projects or facilities would you forego to fund them if necessary?
It is not about forgoing anything it is about priorities and being genuine with your community and government.
Successes of the previous council? (List up to four.)
Storm water harvesting. First in Australia, and gaining world wide attention. But note, not much said about its possibilities in the current pipeline discussion. Anzac Park, Sir Neville House Stadium (Police Boys Club), new hospital, Northern Distributor.
Failures of the previous council? (List up to four.)
Lack of genuine consultation and engagement with community; being overly political and not being genuinely community representative, and often self interest over community interest.
What are your policy priorities?
Lobby for extra funding to get our roads, footpaths and gutters up to a reasonable standard in keeping with our aspirations as a leading regional centre,and community expectations. Strengthening and raising Suma Park Dam. Completion and finishing of Northern Distributor to user expectations. Continued lobbying for health service support (staff, parking, accommodation etc), Orange and Regional sustainable solutions for water and waste.
Are you in favour of: (yes or no)
A full-time mayor
No, Orange is not big enough for a full time mayor. It does not need that extra expense, and I still believe nine councillors, genuinely doing the expected job could do our wonderful city justice.
Direct election of the mayor by voters:
I will wait and see what community believe. Either way it is an honour and a privilege, not a right.
