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 Jacob Toner, running independently for Northern Ward.

  1. What should be the city council’s role in helping homeless people and beggars? 
    Council should work in partnership with central government and community organisations to provide social housing, combat public disorder, and provide social opportunities (e.g. community centres).
  2. What would you do to make Wellington more cycle and pedestrian friendly? 
    Support integrated cycleways rather than current disconnected sections.  Mobilise the overwhelming community support for safer options for cyclists!
  3. How do you think traffic flow to the hospital and airport should be improved? 
    Sensible mix of public and private transport solutions. Second Mt Vic tunnel a must. Should make use of central government funds when offered.
  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? 
    Nestled between the hills and sea, Wellington has beautiful natural scenery. Residents are innovative, our IT and creative industries need support to flourish further.
  5. What will YOU do to get more investment, businesses, and business confidence in Wellington? 
    Keep rates under control so we don’t price businesses and people out of the city. Remove roadblocks stifling growth.
  6. What does Wellington need more of, and what does Wellington need less of? 
    More events, more public art, more diversity, more cycleways, less graffiti, less congestion.
  7. What would your city council provide for children and young people? 
    Green recreation spaces and sports grounds, high quality events (lets support the Cuba St Carnival), supported Community Centres.
  8. What steps would you take to encourage civic engagement?
    Greater use of modern engagement tools like Facebook and Twitter. I’ll endeavour to be an accessible representative.
  9. Tell us about your personal earthquake plan / What’s unusual about your earthquake kit?
    Duck, cover, hold! I have gummy bears in my kit – high energy and might lift my spirits in a quake too!
  10. Why should we vote for you?
    I will ensure the council focusses on getting the basics right; 21st century transportation, affordable rates, resilience against risks, capital class infrastructure, graffiti control.
  11. Where can we find out more about what you stand for?
    www.jacobtoner.com, Twitter: @JacobToner1, Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JacobToner1ForNorthernWard