We’ve provided a set of questions for the mayoral and councillor candidates to answer. First 25 words to an answer get posted. Check our 2013 Election coverage for all responses as they come in.

Here’s Sarah Free for the Eastern Ward. Keep reading →

1.      What should be the city council’s role in helping homeless people and beggars?

Partner with City Mission, Night Shelter, drug/alcohol and other agencies to find housing solutions and support. Recognise some issues are not easily solved.

2.      What would you do to make Wellington more cycle and pedestrian friendly?

 “Cycling corridors” on selected roads- cars discouraged, cyclists have priority. More budget for cycle routes on main roads. Safer pedestrian crossings. Fix street lighting.

 3.      How do you think traffic flow to the hospital and airport should be improved?

Short-term: bus-priority lanes, cheaper bus fares, safer walking and cycling. Frequent, affordable airport bus to reduce taxis. Long-term: waiting on outcomes for...

  4.      What are your views on the suggestion Wellington needs to be “more than just Weta and Government” – what do you think are Wellington’s strengths?

Stimulating environment, creative culture, great food and amazing people- Build on strengths in IT, education, food and beverages, tourism; grow a niche manufacturing base.

5.    What will YOU do to get more investment, businesses, and business confidence in Wellington?

Attend local business meetings, listen, communicate, streamline red tape for businesses. Ensure infrastructure upgrades meet requirements, assist with networking and promotion. Advocate local purchasing.

6.      What does Wellington need more of, and what does Wellington need less of?

More thriving businesses in empty suburban shops, more niche manufacturing, more cycle-ways and walkways, more reasons for tourists ( Luge? Short-stay caravan park?) Less …

 7.      What would your city council provide for children and young people?

Cheaper bus fares for youth/families. Free libraries, playgrounds  and stuff to do. Clean beaches and natural environment. Opportunities for youth to showcase talent.

8.      What steps would you take to encourage civic engagement?

Keep communities informed. Make meeting minutes easier to find online.  Promote Loomio and online feedback.  Invite representative community groups to attend selected council forums.

9.    Tell us about your personal earthquake plan / What’s unusual about your earthquake kit? Plan: We all get home somehow…then check on neighbours. Earthquake kit has water, food – the usual things. Most unusual thing- chook food!

10.   Why should we vote for you?

I do my homework, and get things done. Sound judgement. Life experience. Personal skills. For fresh, positive, pro-active energy, please consider voting me “1”

11. Where can we find out more about what you stand for?

Web: www.sarahfree.org.nz or www.vote.co.nz

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/VoteSarahFreeForEasternWard?ref=hl

Twitter: @sarahfreenz