Lismore City Council candidates battling for your vote in NSW Local Government elections 2024
With the 2024 Local Government elections just around the corner, we’ve reached out to Lismore City Council hopefuls to see what they’re all about.
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The 2024 Local Government elections are quickly approaching on September 14, so we’ve reached out to Lismore City Council candidates to find out what they’re all about.
In Lismore, four groups are on the ballot, lead by current Mayor Steve Krieg, newcomer Harper Dalton-Earls, familiar face Adam Guise, and colourful character Big Rob.
Current councillors Elly Bird, Peter Colby, and Darlene Cook are not recontesting.
Altogether there’s 30 candidates vying for 11 council spots, and five in the race for the top job.
We asked the candidates to tell us how they’ll tackle the biggest issues, why you should vote for them, and their opinion on moving Lismore forward as a regional hub.
The Greens
Adam Guise
Longstanding Lismore councillor Adam Guise said with community support he would continue to “fly the green flag” in Lismore.
“Off the back of devastating floods and budget black holes, I’ve been a voice for reason, integrity and rationality,” he said.
He said the council needed to “listen and involve the community” more and should “govern in the public interest”.
“With eight years' experience on council already, and my extensive knowledge of planning and local government laws, I have the skills necessary to continue as an effective and proactive councillor,” he said.
What have you identified as a major issue in your electorate, and how would you address it if elected?
Issues surrounding flood recovery are hot topics for Mr Guise.
“Since the devastating floods and landslips in 2022, our community has been suffering. We’ve lacked real leadership from the current council majority who have passed the responsibility onto others to lead our flood recovery,” he said.
Mr Guise said a “genuine flood recovery” needed to be community led and he wants to help work on a vision for the future of how and where we live post-disaster.
“Our 100-year-old hardwood houses need to be preserved and relocated, and land acquired to enable affordable relocations and new housing suitable for an ageing population,” he said.
“Flood mitigation cannot rely on hard engineering solutions like raising the levee or building a mega-dam which are exorbitantly expensive, prone to failure and likely to take years.
“We need a catchment-based approach which utilises nature-based solutions including river regeneration and relocating from high-risk areas.”
Why should locals vote for you?
“I’ve been a councillor on Lismore City Council for eight years, advocating for sensible planning decisions, sound governance and financial responsibility,” he said.
Mr Guise said he was a key part of the gas field-free anti-CSG campaign which saw the community win out over coal seam gas mining interests in northern NSW.
“I’ve stood up for the community, advocated for a fair flood recovery and safe housing and been a voice for reason and integrity,” he said.
“In the council chamber I’ve shown respect to my fellow councillors, done the work of reading the business papers and explained the reasons for my decisions.
“I’m determined to keep flying the Greens banner for community driven decision making and protecting our environment.”
What are your thoughts on progressing Lismore to a thriving regional hub while balancing the needs of all sectors in the community?
Mr Guise said restoring trust in the council and addressing the housing crisis were both key to rebuilding community and ensuring Lismore’s future as a thriving regional hub.
“The way decisions have been made by the current majority have not been transparent, with secret workshops and confidential decisions being kept from the public,” he said.
Mr Guie said council briefings should be lifestreamed and important council services that impact our community like waste management and the quarry should be discussed more openly.
He believes the council needs to play a leading role in combating the housing crisis by advocating for affordable and social housing.
“Already there are some 3000 residential lots zoned or capable of being zoned for housing,” he said.
“Rather than being landbanked by developers, this land needs medium density housing for an ageing and growing single/double household population.
“Housing needs to be ecologically sustainable, well designed and support people to live happy, healthy and connected lives.”
Vanessa Ekins
Lismore stalwart, and former mayor Vanessa Ekins said she was “keen to be the next mayor”.
Ms Ekins has 20 years' experience as a councillor and said she demonstrated responsible and community-focused decision making.
“My achievements as former mayor include bringing a conflicted council into harmony, ensuring a surplus budget with no rate rise, adopting an affordable housing strategy that is being implemented today and initiating the hand back of sacred sites to the Widjabul Wiabal people,” Ms Ekins said.
Ms Ekins described herself as a passionate local whose heart was “full of hope for the future”
She expects the region to thrive under good leadership following unprecedented floods, landslides, fires and the Covid pandemic.
“Under my leadership, council will be responsive to community needs and ensure services are affordable,” she said.
“For example, core functions such as waste must be managed efficiently by our own people, not handed over to big out of town companies.
“Local businesses need as much access to council’s $200 million budget as possible, this is how we invest in the local economy.
“My commitment to you is that I will do the work, show up and focus on what you say as important.”
What have you identified as a major issue in your electorate, and how would you address it if elected?
Ms Ekins said one key issue in Lismore was the creation of affordable housing for workers and flood-affected families.
“Relocating rainforest timber homes from the flood plain makes sense and council has planned for flood free land for 4000 house lots,” she said.
“Because most of our households consist of only one or two people, I am keen to see medium density units built between Lismore and Ballina.
“This is a major investment opportunity and will provide affordable key worker housing for the whole region.”
Why should locals vote for you?
Ms Ekins said under her leadership Lismore could expect to see more affordable medium-density housing for reconstruction and service workers.
“Flood impacted historical rainforest timber homes would also be relocated to flood free land in Goonellabah,” she said.
Ms Ekins said the city’s roads and sewer infrastructure has to be rebuilt and she wanted to fight for a bustling CBD.
She said surrounding villages would receive adequate services and community facilities and that “thousands of trees” have to be planted in the upper catchment to “make local rivers healthy again”.
Ms Ekins also listed an Olympic-standard skate park, a youth hub in Goonellabah and the creation of more exciting and safe spaces for young families to enjoy as priorities.
What are your thoughts on progressing Lismore to a thriving regional hub while balancing the needs of all sectors in the community?
Ms Ekins pointed out the increasingly high cost of living as a critical issue for Lismore folk.
“My rates notice has doubled in the 30 years I have been paying rates to council,” she said.
Tatepayers inject $30 million to council’s budget and Ms Ekins said the cost to provide core services such as water supply, sewerage, roads, sports fields, libraries and waste management services was about $200 million annually.
“I will prioritise making Council services efficient and affordable and ensure council jobs by council workers,” she said.
Ms Ekins said an unpopular decision to privatise the waste collection services stripped income from local businesses and ratepayers ended up paying more.
“I will prioritise making Council services efficient and affordable and ensure council jobs by council workers,” she said.
Dr Luke Robinson
Dr Luke Robinson works as a senior emergency physician at Lismore Base Hospital and said the job required good teamwork and the ability to manage complex situations under pressure.
Mr Robinson said he has communication skills and emotional intelligence required to support patients, their loved ones and colleagues – and he was “honoured” to be standing as a candidate for the Greens.
“I believe these skills will stand me in good stead as your representative on council. I am committed to the respectful, consultative and transparent operation of council for the whole community, not just narrow sectional interests,” Mr Robinson said.
A resident of Whian Whian involved in local Landcare activities, Mr Robinson said he was committed to the protection of “our special Northern Rivers home”.
“Finally, as a musician and poet, I value the vibrant artistic community of this region and look forward to it thriving into our future,” he said.
What have you identified as a major issue in your electorate, and how would you address it if elected?
“There are several major issues facing this LGA, including the provision of affordable housing, flood recovery, sensible adaptation for future flooding, protection of koala habitat, valuing our Bundjalung heritage, and keeping waste and quarry services in public hands with council jobs for council workers,” Mr Robinson said.
He said the key to addressing the issues was the restoration of a “respectful, consultative and transparent council”.
“Deeply committed” to these principles Mr Robinson said the Greens will “strive for a council that protects our special Northern Rivers home and serves the interest of our whole community,” he said.
Why should locals vote for you?
“In my work I all too often see the effects of the many intersecting challenges facing our patients and wider community, including lack of housing, flood impacts, and difficulty accessing general and mental health services,” Mr Robinson said.
He said as a representative on the council, working with other progressive councillors, challenges would be taken on with “energy and ambition”.
Mr Robinson said he was committed to the restoration of the Big Scrub rainforest and opposed the resurrection of the Dunoon Dam.
“Finally, as a musician and poet I will be a strong advocate for this region’s vibrant artistic community.”
What are your thoughts on progressing Lismore to a thriving regional hub while balancing the needs of all sectors in the community?
Prioritising council spending on local businesses, keeping jobs in-house and local and not outsourcing to out-of-town private contractors is on top of Mr Robinson’s list.
“Promoting business and broader economic activity should be seen as one way of serving the needs our community, not as an isolated end in itself at the expense of other needs,” he said.
Housing, the environment, and promotion of the arts are also high priorities for this candidate.
Lindall Watson
Ms Watson is an educator and described herself as an advocate for inclusive and accessible learning for all.
She has taught English and has implemented special educational initiatives while working alongside community elders in remote community schools in the Northern Territory.
Ms Watson said as part of her PhD in values education she has a “deep understanding of the important issues impacting young Australians”.
“As a councillor I will commit to bringing a focus on our youth as integral to the present and future planning and decision making for Lismore,” she said.
Ms Watson said she would challenge the state government to be more responsive to the needs of young people in the region.
“I will lobby wholeheartedly for a collaborative approach in council and across all levels of government to build the critical infrastructure that helps to keep communities safe and to thrive – not merely survive,” she said.
What have you identified as a major issue in your electorate, and how would you address it if elected?
“I see the unprecedented housing crisis as the most urgent issue for the Lismore Council,” Ms Watson said.
“If elected I will drive for an affordable housing strategy and advocate for medium density and smaller homes to cater to key workers, older residents, and those seeking sustainable living options.”
Why should locals vote for you?
Ms Watson said she was motivated to help build a community-led and transparent local council which assists all in the community to thrive socially, culturally and economically. She also pointed out the importance of environmentalism.
“All residents deserve a fair, just and respectful council where the allocation of resources is delivered with equity and equality,” she said.
What are your thoughts on progressing Lismore to a thriving regional hub while balancing the needs of all sectors in the community?
Ms Watson said “sustainable and well-designed development” was paramount to strike a balance of progressing the area and meeting the diverse needs of all community sectors.
“Ongoing and authentic community engagement should underpin how the council drives the protection of important environmental and agricultural lands, coordinates long term planning and delivery of affordable housing strategies, strengthens key employment options and expands arts and culture,” she said.
Binnie O’Dwyer
A parent, criminal defence solicitor, and activist, Ms O’Dwyer has called Lismore home for the past 25 years.
She said she felt “fortunate” to live on land taken care of by the Widjabul Wia-bal people for many thousands of years.
Ms O’Dwyer said she was “honoured” to run for council as a Green candidate.
She said working at the Aboriginal Legal Service has given her a “unique insight” into the complexities of disadvantage in the community.
“It has also shown me there are gaps in the system at every level, which if filled, could contribute towards having a more safe and inclusive community, something we all want and deserve,” she said.
“I’m running for council because I believe the Greens have an important role to play in making this happen.”
What have you identified as a major issue in your electorate, and how would you address it if elected?
“In my work, I get to see first-hand that disadvantage and homelessness are key drivers of crime,” Ms O’Dwyer said.
She said she would advocate for funding to provide more mental health and substance abuse help, and for a Goonellabah youth hub.
“It is my view that no one is completely safe until everyone is, and having a home is key to that,” she said.
Ms O'Dwyer said housing developments should be environmentally stable and cater to a diverse section of households and incomes.
Why should locals vote for you?
“We are encouraging people to vote 1 above the line for the Greens. Our ticket has six intelligent, compassionate, community minded locals, who are dedicated to revitalising our town and recognising the unique villages in our catchment,” Ms O’Dwyer said.
“We are committed to respecting First Nations knowledge, investing in sustainable development and supporting our local economy.”
What are your thoughts on progressing Lismore to a thriving regional hub while balancing the needs of all sectors in the community?
“Lismore is the heart of the Northern Rivers, it may be a little broken, but with good governance and leadership that’s focused on the wellbeing of everyone, as well as the land and rivers which sustain us, I truly believe we can flourish,” Ms O’Dwyer said.
She said reviving and rebuilding Lismore and villages was at the forefront of decision making for the Greens.
“We believe this can be achieved through a fair community led recovery that supports our most vulnerable, advocates for diverse and genuinely affordable homes, as well as ensuring businesses have confidence and opportunity in a climate prepared community,” she said.
Virginia Waters
Ms Waters is a long-term resident of Nimbin and has experience in community services, events management, and project management.
“I am passionate about representing Nimbin, our villages, and Lismore on the Council,” she said.
Ms Waters said she was dedicated to sustainable and community-led disaster recovery efforts, climate-conscious decisions, ecological best practices guiding the council, nature-based solutions and preparedness for future disruptions.
“I believe in transparent governance and aim to be a strong voice, advocating for the needs of all residents,” she said.
“I am committed to a collaborative, inclusive, transparent, sustainable, and resilient future for our community.”
What have you identified as a major issue in your electorate, and how would you address it if elected?
Ms Waters said key issues were an “absence of community voices in the council chamber” and “lack of consultation with the community”, which she feels has hindered the council’s ability to work effectively.
“Post-flood, it’s crucial that we listen to the community to develop a future plan and vision that truly reflects our collective needs and aspirations,” she said.
“I am committed to ensuring these voices are heard and integrated into the recovery and rebuilding process.”
Why should locals vote for you?
Ms Waters described herself as a longstanding local with a “deep connection” to the land and her community.
She said her community services and governance experience equipped her to be an effective representative for Lismore and surrounding villages.
“I am hardworking, committed to being a strong voice in the council, and passionate about being a participatory community member, encouraging others to actively engage in our community’s future,” Ms Waters said.
“My dedication to transparent governance and sustainable recovery makes me a reliable advocate for our collective needs and aspirations.”
What are your thoughts on progressing Lismore to a thriving regional hub while balancing the needs of all sectors in the community?
“Lismore has the potential to be a thriving regional hub, and this can be achieved by balancing environmental sustainability with economic growth,” Ms Waters said.
She said she wanted to support a circular economy, fostering arts and culture and ensure all sectors of the community were included in Lismore’s progress.
“Transparent governance, open dialogue, and collaboration are key to achieving a fair and liveable LGA for everyone,” she said.
Shae Salmon
A mum-of-three, longtime local and law academic at Southern Cross University (SCU), Ms Salmon said she valued not only the educational opportunities provided by SCU, but also its contribution to the economic and cultural life of Lismore.
“I have also performed and volunteered with the Lismore Theatre Company and The Lantern Parade and am a presenter and Vice-President for our local community radio station 2NCR River FM 92.9,” she said.
Ms Salmon said arts, music and community events give Lismore its “heart and soul”.
She loves wildlife and Ms Salmon said she was passionate about preserving and nurturing species and their habitats, especially regarding koalas.
“We need development that provides affordable housing while protecting our natural environment, for now and future generations,” she said.
What have you identified as a major issue in your electorate, and how would you address it if elected?
Ms Salmon said that building more affordable and safe housing was the most pressing issue for the Lismore area.
“I would also push for sound environmentally sensitive and sustainable planning as it is also most important to promote a thriving business sector, while keeping our environment healthy,” she said.
Why should locals vote for you?
Ms Salmon said she has raised a family in Lismore, worked at one of the main educational institutions and had her “heart in what’s best for the community”.
“I love being part of different community organisations, such as radio River FM and the Lismore Theatre company,” she said.
What are your thoughts on progressing Lismore to a thriving regional hub while balancing the needs of all sectors in the community?
Ms Salmon wants new developments to make use of existing structures where possible. She pointed to flood safety as a priority and said biodiversity strategies have to be considered for all new development applications.
“It is very important to maintain and nurture our natural environment, including protecting our precious wildlife,” she said.
Ms Salmon said keeping young people in Lismore was also paramount.
“More involvement of our youth and more accessible activities and employment opportunities for them is important,” she said.
Independents
John Jenkins
First time running for council is ungrouped independent candidate John Jenkins – a Northern Rivers resident since 2007.
Flying solo he said it would “be a privilege to continue to serve the community”.
“I have been a volunteer in many roles related to social and sporting services. I am an experienced and qualified Director and have published research in many fields relevant to local councils and communities,” Mr Jenkins said.
What have you identified as a major issue in your electorate, and how would you address it if elected?
Mr Jenkins said “good governance is essential” and he would work towards a “fully functional and collaborative council” that provides strong leadership, that works collaboratively and fulfils its assigned responsibilities.
He said in doing so, the council will be able to more effectively support the community and achieve strategic priorities.
“Only through good governance can we hope to properly address major issues such as the mitigation of risks relating to disaster and devastation from floods, homelessness and housing, and the efficient delivery of key services.”
Why should locals vote for you?
With 15 years in governance under his belt Mr Jenkins said he has the experience, skills and capabilities to fulfil the responsibilities of councillors and the mayor.
“I am committed to decision-making that is based on evidence and consultation, and will work with diverse interests to collaborate, and to try to find solutions to complex problems.”
He said he will always explain the reasons for his position on matters and his decisions.
What are your thoughts on progressing Lismore to a thriving regional hub while balancing the needs of all sectors in the community?
Mr Jenkins said this will take a lot of time and energy, creative thinking and scientific research.
Several actions he said are needed including sharing the vision, building community cohesion, and having stronger advocacy to other levels of government.
Also to have policy and planning frameworks that promote development initiatives aligned to risk mitigation, to address risks and ensure the regions diverse peoples and community can thrive.
He wants to grow sustainable development initiatives that capitalise on the natural, physical and cultural assets of the region.
“For example, support leisure, recreation and sporting facilities and hubs, the creative arts and industries, and a vibrant night-time economy. Also establish a stronger focus on services and resources outside the Lismore CBD.
Big Rob
Mr Rob is a current councillor and has nominated for mayor in the local government elections.
When asked the same questions as others running for election, Mr Rob said: “Fake news, no comment!”
The five candidates running on ballot C as independents with Mr Rob include Shaen Springall, Luke Tanttari, Christopher Knight, and Stella Coleman.
Candidates did not respond to request for comment by deadline.
Steve Krieg
Incumbent Mayor Steve Krieg said he wants to continue the work he started during his time with the council, alongside his team.
What have you identified as a major issue in your electorate, and how would you address it if elected?
“Restoring Lismore council’s financial position by looking at the business of council and making some “significant changes” to make council operations more sustainable and viable.
Flood recovery remains a big issue,” he said.
“There’s still 600 odd homes that have been bought back by the Reconstruction Authority and then providing suitable flood-free land for those homes to either be relocated or whatever the case may be with them.
“A key statistic in waste collection is that trucks need to pick up a bin every 17 seconds. Our residential ratepayers have been subsidising rural ratepayers for a long time so we’ve made it more a user pays system, though it hasn’t gone down real well, it’s been a necessary challenge to balance the books.
“Our waste service was looking at a $6.5 million loss this financial year if we didn’t address it.”
Why should locals vote for you?
“An executive team of leaders was put in place who understand the complexities and issues facing the LGA,” Mr Krieg said.
“We’ve gone from a very damaged organisation to a sustainable and vibrant one that people want to come and work for.”
“To provide stability and consistency we’ve applied through the United Services Union, who are providing apprenticeships paid by the state government.
“We want to put on upwards of 42 apprentices, trainees, and cadets through the organisation then train the next wave of future leaders through local governments.
“Coming in so green three years ago I didn’t grasp how complicated local government is.”
What are your thoughts on progressing Lismore to a thriving regional hub while balancing the needs of all sectors in the community?
“Council has put in a lot of work behind the scenes for flood recovery and has literally been front and centre of rewriting legislation at the state level that will make disaster recovery a lot easier and more efficient for other communities that go through what Lismore has endured over the last couple of years,” Mr Krieg said.
He said every decision made was for the “best of the community” and the “long-term sustainability” of Lismore City Council.
Mr Krieg said a cultural shift has begun and the council would be “customer-centric” and “ratepayer focused”. He said it would be a “long, long journey” but necessary for the overall growth and prosperity of Lismore.
Candidates running with Mr Krieg on group A are newcomers Nardia Pidcock, Chris King, Tara Coles, Michelle Dowse, and Richelle Weekes.
Former Lismore councillor Gianpiero Battista has also signed up.
Jeri Hall, Andrew Gordon, Electra Jensen, and Andrew Bing are staying for another crack at a seat at the table.
Candidates on the ticket did not respond to requests for comment by deadline.
Labor
Harper Dalton-Earls
Leading the Labor charge for Lismore is newcomer Harper Dalton-Earls.
“Our Lismore Labor Council team is committed to delivering strong, compassionate leadership that prioritises the needs of our community,” he said.
“We understand the challenges facing Lismore, from flood recovery to affordable housing, and bring a wealth of experience along with a clear vision for a sustainable future.”
The party has been advocating for practical solutions to ensure the long-term growth of the region, including better infrastructure, transparent waste management, and sustainable water strategies.
“Our focus on collaboration, transparency, and accountability means that every decision we make will be in the best interest of Lismore’s residents,” Mr Dalton-Earls said.
“By voting for our Lismore Labor Council team, you’re supporting a group that values community engagement and is committed to making Lismore a thriving, safe, and inclusive place for everyone.”
What have you identified as a major issue in your electorate, and how would you address it if elected?
Mr Dalton-Earls said Lismore needs a “co-ordinated leadership” to address flood preparedness and recovery.
“The chaotic approach currently seen in our council has led to inconsistent and ineffective management of buybacks and other flood mitigation efforts,” he said.
“If elected, I will focus on strengthening council leadership to ensure that Lismore has a clear, unified front to direct state government actions on buybacks and future flood recovery action, including healthy consideration of the recommendations that will be presented by the CSIRO whole of catchment study due in 2025.”
He said a well-co-ordinated council was “essential to implementing comprehensive flood management plans” like improving drainage infrastructure, advocating for transparent waste services, and ensuring the community is better prepared for future disasters.
Why should locals vote for you?
“Because I am deeply committed to ensuring the long-term health and safety of our community,” Mr Dalton-Earls said.
He said he would draw on his professional background in social work and flood recovery and the roles made him “uniquely positioned” to lead council with accountability.
“My focus will be on practical, community-driven solutions, including better management of council assets, advocating for much-needed but sustainable development to bring more housing, and ensuring that decisions made by the council reflect the best interests of everyone in our community,” he said.
What are your thoughts on progressing Lismore to a thriving regional hub while balancing the needs of all sectors in the community?
Mr Dalton-Earls said it would require a “balanced approach” in which council and councillors foster collaboration with residents, businesses, and environmental groups to ensure growth does not come at the expense of cultural and ecological heritage.
“The role of local government is critical in this, as it must lead the way in sustainable development, support local businesses, and maintain transparency in council actions and public services like waste management and infrastructure,” he said.
“My vision is for a council that supports all forms of economic growth and opportunity while still acknowledging and safeguarding our natural resources: A future where all residents and future generations benefit from Lismore’s progress.”
Glenys Ritchie
What have you identified as a major issue in your electorate, and how would you address it if elected?
Ms Ritchie said residents and businesses still need a clear road to recovery after the 2022 floods.
“We need a vision, a road map, that all can understand to alleviate the confusion and build confidence in our City and villages,” she said.
“This road map needs to address housing, infrastructure, flood plain management and outline in plain English any ongoing State and Federal support for Lismore.”
Why should locals vote for you?
“I am fortunate to have worked with a reasonably balanced team of councillors during my time on council between 2012 and 2016, and I want to see that back in the council chambers,” Ms Ritchie said.
She added that Lismore needs councillors that are transparent in their decision making and willing to discuss reasons for decisions.
She said councillors needed to be collaborative, respectful of council staff and encourage consultation with the community – the people who love the area.
What are your thoughts on progressing Lismore to a thriving regional hub while balancing the needs of all sectors in the community?
“Thoughtful, consultative planning is required to get the balance right in progressing Lismore and its villages,” Ms Ritchie said.
She said development and planning decisions needed to incorporate Lismore’s “unique environment”.
“Our city is the regional hub of the area, and to allow it to thrive and flourish again means listening to all of its people – that includes ratepayers, renters, business and commercial organisations, the more mature and those growing up in our city,” she said.
Lewis Taylor
What have you identified as a major issue in your electorate, and how would you address it if elected?
The ongoing 2022 floods recovery is on top of mind for Mr Taylor.
“The Lismore region must properly recover from the 2022 floods, and make future contingency plans for more floods, if the city and surrounding districts are to have a viable future,” he said.
Mr Taylor said he was researching the best strategies for recovery and would put forward strategies based on that.
“My approach would be based on research, rather than ideology, with the best available data informing how I will vote on council,” he said.
Why should locals vote for you?
Mr Taylor’s dad’s family has lived in the area for four generations and he said that has instilled in him a “strong and enduring love” for the region.
“I love the live music scene, natural areas like Whian Whian Falls, and the unique culture of this area,” he said.
“I am passionate about protecting all three things, and my passion would drive my work and activism on council.”
What are your thoughts on progressing Lismore to a thriving regional hub while balancing the needs of all sectors in the community?
Mr Taylor said options for the future of Lismore include expanding the industrial zone by redeveloping North and South Lismore, and reigniting a healthy night life.
“Encouraging, rather than condemning, live music and live music scenes in the area could revitalise the Northern Rivers’ once thriving live music culture, and the associated events economy,” he said.
“Last but not least, redeveloping residential zones for low to middle income housing could provide an economic boom to the region, through encouraging low to middle income workers to work in the area, while living (and spending) in Lismore.”
Kevin Bell
Mr Bell came from Sydney and graduated from RMC Duntroon in 1978. He served in the Defence Force for 13 years.
“I later turned to a teaching career and taught in Casino and Lismore for 30 years,” Mr Bell said.
“I live with my wife, Cath, on a small property in Repentance Creek. We have two daughters who went to local schools, who have now left home pursuing their careers.”
What have you identified as a major issue in your electorate, and how would you address it if elected?
Mr Bell said the major issue for Lismore was the ongoing flood recovery.
“I believe we need to liaise with the state government to better progress the needs of the CBD and the residential areas,” he said.
“We need to prioritise our needs and lobby government for the finances to satisfy what we require to build our city to be more resilient to flood events.”
Why should locals vote for you?
Mr Bell said he had “solid ideas” about how Lismore can progress given he has lived in the area for 30 years.
“I have experience in farming, education and working with youth, giving me a broad understanding of the region’s needs,” he said.
What are your thoughts on progressing Lismore to a thriving regional hub while balancing the needs of all sectors in the community?
“For Lismore to progress, we need to promote our strengths,” he said.
“We have wonderful education facilities. Southern Cross University should be promoted as a leading regional university, a place to study teaching, nursing and the arts.
“We need to promote small and medium sized business to come to our city, lifting our employment opportunities for our young people and giving them a reason to remain in the region.”
William Harrison
A Lismore local since 2008, Mr Harrison said he has developed a “deep passion and care” for the place he now calls home.
With a keen interest in history, the legal system, politics and the environment, the 18-year-old put his hand up to run to advocate for the concerns of young people.
“There are many issues concerning young people in the local community I care about like the increasing rate in which young people are leaving Lismore and the lack of activities and facilities for youth entertainment,” he said.
“I believe the discussion of youth related issues concerning council need to be at the front of the council election as many of the decisions council makes will dramatically affect young people.”
What have you identified as a major issue in your electorate, and how would you address it if elected?
Mr Harrison said the “mass exodus of young people” from the Lismore community was a “major issue”.
“Although this was an ongoing issue, the events of 2022 greatly exacerbated the loss of young people staying in the Lismore area,” he said.
“I believe this is due to a lack of affordable housing currently in Lismore alongside the lack of proper night-life for young people to enjoy.”
Mr Harrison wants to encourage sustainable housing development aimed at young renters or first-home buyers.
“With the security of affordable housing for young people, this would greatly assist in keeping young people in Lismore in a time when they are needed more than ever,” he said.
Mr Harrison said “having a good night-life” in the city was essential to ensure young people li stay and live locally.
Why should locals vote for you?
Mr Harrison said there was a “distinct lack” of youth representation on council so he put himself forward.
“This does not mean the local council has been inept in dealing with youth issues, but I believe that having a young person’s perspective on many local issues is essential to decision making and I am willing to put my hand up to do that,” he said.
What are your thoughts on progressing Lismore to a thriving regional hub while balancing the needs of all sectors in the community?
Mr Harrison said getting Lismore back to its former glory as a regional hub was “essential” for the community, though may be difficult.
He said the best way to create the path was by balancing the needs of local businesses, the arts, and housing.
“These sectors and many more all need councils’ equal attention to achieve success so that we can continue growing Lismore as a strong and united community,” he said.
Jasmin Knight-Smith
Ms Knight-Smith holds a law degree and works for NSW’s largest law firm. She has a strong commitment to inclusivity and fairness. She said she wants streamlined council processes and an increase in road funding.
What have you identified as a major issue in your electorate, and how would you address it if elected?
Ms Knight-Smith said housing was a major issue in Lismore and the council had a crucial role.
She said residential DAs were “slow and cumbersome” and the process needed to be streamlined and fast-tracked.
“Lismore needs to be welcoming to developers, but not at the cost of community liveability or the environment,” Ms Knight-Smith said.
“For instance, retrofitting things like footpaths in new developments can be expensive if not planned from the start. We need to ensure that new subdivisions are appealing to developers, future residents and the community.”
Ms Knight- Smith said the NSW government was making unprecedented investments in social and affordable housing, including for key workers and those on low wages.
“We must ensure that Lismore remains a place where our service workers can afford to buy or rent homes. It’s all about balancing growth with maintaining a high quality of life for everyone in our community,” she said.
“An important role for our councillors is to lobby to ensure Lismore receives its fair share.”
Why should locals vote for you?
Ms Knight-Smith was raised in Lismore and said she has a “deep connection to this city and its people”.
“I attended Richmond River High School, studied at Southern Cross University, and earned a degree in Law. Lismore is home to me, and I’m committed to making it the best it can be.”
One of her key concerns is the lack of opportunities for youth,” She said.
“In the Northern Rivers, there isn’t always enough for young people to do, and that’s a factor in rising youth crime rates.”
Ms Knight-Smith wants to create more programs and activities to keep kids engaged and on a positive path.
Walkability and addressing missing footpaths will be crucial for connecting community and enhancing liveability, she said.
On the flood recovery front, Ms Knight-Smith said she wants the region to “truly thrive” by attracting more people to the area to boost the economy.
“I’ll work tirelessly to address these issues and help our community grow and prosper,” she said.
What are your thoughts on progressing Lismore to a thriving regional hub while balancing the needs of all sectors in the community?
“For an area to flourish a council needs to be balanced and inclusive. We must champion the things that make this area gorgeous now and into the future,” Ms Knight-Smith said.
“Sustainable development, progress that respects our natural environment but also fosters economic growth while supporting local enterprises is vital, as they’re the backbone of our community and essential for creating employment opportunities and enhancing our way of life.”
She said transparency and accountability in local government were non-negotiable.
“The council must be clear and open in its dealings, particularly in managing public services like wast,” she said.
Residents, businesses and environmental groups must unite to ensure their progress serves the collective good, Ms Knight-Smith said.
“My vision is for a Lismore where growth is not only robust and dynamic but also equitable and sustainable, ensuring a great future for everyone,” she said.
Joy Knight-Smith
Joy Knight-Smith is a lawyer admitted to the Supreme Court of NSW and employed in NSW’s largest law firm.
She said she was he is passionate about social justice and equity for all. Ms Knight-Smith is keen to see improved employment and social outcomes for young people.
What have you identified as a major issue in your electorate, and how would you address it if elected?
“A major issue I feel passionate about is bringing life back into the CBD,” she said.
“Lismore growth post flood is very different from what it looked like previously. The CBD still has a lot of empty shops has seen an influx of primarily social services and offices, and while these are essential, they do not stimulate the growth and vibrancy that Lismore is looking for and was once known for.
“I want to once again see our CBD as a retail hub, as it should be. To do this, we need a council that is supportive of positive local business to crown us back as the heart of the Northern Rivers.”
Why should locals vote for you?
“Born Lismore Base, die Lismore Base I always say,” she said.
Ms Knight-Smith grew up in Lismore and Nimbin, attended Richmond River High School and achieved a double degree in Law and Arts at Southern Cross University.
“I am passionate about our community and keeping people in it, but to do that we need it to be a place that gives back to our people,” she said.
Ms Knight-Smith said although she may seem a bit young, she’s “with it” and ready to advocate for Lismore.
“I am committed to our community,” she added.
What are your thoughts on progressing Lismore to a thriving regional hub while balancing the needs of all sectors in the community?
Ms Knight-Smith said there must be balance. for Lismore to be a successful regional hub.
“We can’t have business if we aren’t drawing people to the area for that business. We can’t have people without housing. We can’t support those people without infrastructure,” she said.
“And while facilitating the building of that infrastructure, we need to take into account the environment, which is one of the main things drawing people to the Northern Rivers we know and love.
She said a “community is symbiotic” and it should be built as such.
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