This year’s Local Council Election will set the values and direction for Auckland for many years to come. I want the new Council to be based on inclusiveness, strong local communities and getting things done.
The Indian community in Auckland is important to me and I have strong links with people and organisations. I value your traditions, history and spirit.
Indian residents and citizens play an important role in our country with growing economic, social and cultural contributions.
According to the latest census, 74,442 people in Auckland have been identified as Indian. We need to make sure local community identities are protected and enhanced and community groups are supported in the new Super City.
We have a unique blend of people and communities across Auckland, providing us vibrancy, energy and diversity, which is the wellspring of our future prosperity.
Our challenge is to build on these foundations, ensuing that local community identities are protected and enhanced and that the focus does not simply shift to the CBD.
My background is in working alongside diverse communities. I want to see special Indian events such as Diwali, India’s Republic Day and Independence Day celebrated in the new Super City.
I will set up an Indian Community Advisory Group, and build strong economic and cultural links with India.
You can trust me to unite our communities, bring people together and retain local identity (no Downtown takeover), keep rates low (I will open the books and deliver efficiencies from the new Council and retain public ownership of key public assets (no privatisation of our water, airport shares, elderly housing or the Ports).
I will not flip-flop on this issue.
You could also trust me to tackle crime and promote community safety (including stopping graffiti, more CCTV cameras and street patrols) and fix Auckland’s transport (including finishing the motorway network and delivering better public transport such as an airport rail link) and work alongside Indian businesses to build our region’s economic base and deliver prosperity.
I would expand high quality education opportunities for all ages throughout Auckland and protect your local pools, parks and libraries.
As Mayor of Manukau, I have delivered the lowest average rates, water and wastewater charges in the region – $1845, compared to $2400 in Auckland City.
I have also delivered rate increases close to the rate of inflation and no increase to water rates, while my opponent (Auckland Mayor John Banks) has allowed some people to pay up to $1000 for wastewater.
I have worked alongside the Police to cut crime. My Council has helped get rid of graffiti, promoted education, delivered transport infrastructure and supported many community organisations.
It is time for strong inclusive leadership that can bring all Aucklanders together.
My wife and I raised our family in Auckland. I have commercial experience as a partner in a law firm and I am a Mayor who has passion for both the job and for the community.
I will work closely with the Indian community to make sure your voice is heard in the new Auckland Council.
Most importantly, I know how to run a fast growing and dynamic city, and how to get things done.
By now, you should have received your voting papers through the mail. Please tick Len Brown for Mayor and freepost your voting papers back before October 7 to make sure your vote counts.
Len Brown is currently Mayor of Manukau City and a candidate in the upcoming Mayoral Elections for Auckland City.
