Greg Sayers Ward — Rodney
Road to City Hall
Rumours of corruption at the former Rodney District Council sparked a political interest for the businessman. Elected to the Hibiscus and Bays Local Board in 2010 and that board and Rodney Local Board in 2013. Owned a financial software company for 15 years that he sold 18 months ago to dedicate himself full-time to politics. Been a director of two other companies. Unseated former Rodney Mayor and Len Brown loyalist Penny Webster.
Maiden speech
Believed 2016 was an opportunity for a fresh start with a clear mandate from the community for council to live within its means. Called for a stop to waste and overspending and pointed to cost savings if rates are to be kept low. Wants structure plans for northern growth centres at Kumeu and Warkworth. Talked about the health hazards from dust particles on unsealed roads, and a sealing programme of $10 million a year in Rodney.
Top quote
“I believe our mandate to be clear. Council must live within its financial means.”
Hopes and aspirations
Top priority is getting wasteful spending under control, largely through cost savings. Cites duplication on economic development as an area ripe for savings. Wants council to play a more active role in affordable housing by freeing up land supply more quickly and cutting red tape. Going to push for structure plans in towns earmarked for growth. Says the cart is before the horse with consents being issued for housing before transport and other infrastructure is in place. Increase Rodney’s sealing programme from $3m to $10m a year over the next 10 years. That would seal one-third of the ward’s roads, which is sufficient.
Five things I love about Auckland
1. Being able to hop into a small boat, go fishing and grab a snapper. 2. Access to affordable leisure, be it the beach or going for a walk in Cornwall Park. 3. How accessible Auckland is by travelling from home in Snells Beach to the central city for dinner, an event or the zoo. 4. Business in Auckland — it’s a wonderful place to set up and do business. 5. General lifestyle — my family choose to live in Auckland because of the lifestyle.