Recovery focus in Division 9 race
Brett Olds and Dariusz Chrabkowski say collaboration will be vital in
THE two-horse race contenders for Division 9 both have an eye on the post-coronavirus world as priorities for their constituents.
Cr Brett Olds and Dariusz Chrabkowski have highlighted collaboration, employment and assistance for small business as key to recovering from the COVID-19 economic shock.
“It is paramount that we work together, now more than ever,” the incumbent Cr Olds said.
“We need to lean on each other and get through this as a united community.
“We are all responsible in helping to achieve this and must take care of our families and our neighbours.
“I will work with my colleagues to bring forward projects in an effort to create employment opportunities for locals and leave no stone unturned as we try to find any means we can to help ease the burdens for residents.
“I am sure there will be many, many programs and projects looked into through the upcoming budget talks.”
Mr Chrabkowski sounded the suspension of relevant charges by council as a stimulus to help small business recover.
“All opportunities must be open for discussion and the removal of Cairns Regional Council fees and charges are an initial way of incentivising our business community,” Mr Chrabkowski said.
“I know as a city council we have a limited amount of money, however as councillors we need to bring about strategies that create opportunity for commercial enterprises to restart, we need to be bold and make sure that all have an opportunity and if that means minimising start-up cost for many, we must take up the challenge and make it happen.”
The two candidates both approached the issue of crime in terms of collaborating and challenging the State Government, and in taking a greater role at a local level.
Cr Olds said he would push for a region-wide Safer Citizens Program.
“We are already playing in the safety game within the CBD and I believe we could expand this to the suburbs, for at least a two-year trial – fully funded by a grant through the State and Federal Government,” Cr Olds said.
“Residents are sick and tired of empty promises and demand action. We can play a part here and I will fight for the Safer Citizens Program to be adopted. We also need to continue to lobby the State Government to amend failed legislation and fix up the juvenile justice system.”
Mr Chrabkowski said communication and collaboration with community groups to address the root causes of crimes would be a priority should he be elected.
“Council has a role and responsibility to work closer with our community social service groups,” Mr Chrabkowski said.
“We need to be able to help strengthen our community neighbourhood programs, and build crime prevention strategies with close community consultation. We must let our police members know we support the work they are doing and assist them wherever we can … we must not be afraid to step up, protect our communities and our people.”