As promised in our trailer last week, here is the first in the series of statements from candidates for the Ventnor West Ward Town Councillor Election. Ed
A voice for Ventnor!
Please let me introduce myself. My name is Steve Cooper, I live in Ventnor with my partner and two sons and I would like to serve as your representative on the Town Council.
I use the words representative, as opposed to councillor, because that is what I exactly see the role being. Your voice, your views, your town!
Having lived on the island since 1984 and moved to Ventnor in 2001, it is my opinion that Ventnor is quite simply unique. A town of outstanding Victorian terraced charm with people and a community spirit that make this town and area very special. I appreciate that and never want to lose it, but it could happen if we are not alert to dangers.
What I stand for
* Whatever your views, they will be heard at the Town Council and beyond where appropriate. I may sometimes differ with you and will say so. However, that would not stop me from voicing your views in balance with others, as your representative.
* For Ventnor Town Council to be given a budget to enable improvements in the running of local services, such as; Public Conveniences, Parks and Gardens, etc.
* No over or un-necessary development of Ventnor or surrounding area.
* Development of activity areas for the young of Ventnor.
* Commitment to keep local schools ‘local’ and to lobby elected members of County Hall as and where necessary.
* Tough on imposed County Hall decisions where local people and or their representatives object. For example, is it right when the collective choice of the Town Council objects to planning proposals, only to be ignored and have it approved by IW Council.
* A Town Council that leads on sustainability, with targets to reduce our local carbon footprint.
* Encouragement and support of all local events and business that improve and are wanted by local town’s people.
* Continuity of law enforcement in and around the town.
* To forge a close working relationship with the Ventnor Town Manager, ensuring that issues of Fly Tipping, Graffiti and other problems within the town are dealt with swiftly.
* Two way open lines of communication between residents, businesses, the retired, the young and myself, so that you always have an input. Method used could be newsletters, surveys, e-mail or the telephone.
So why do I want this job?
Because the first tier of local government matters and I was asked to stand in the forthcoming election by a town’s person. It is my belief that I can make a difference. My wish to be your voice and my deep felt fondness of the town and the people that live here that motivates me in standing.
Representative experience
I work with the Isle of Wight College team as their employed Health and Safety Officer, but please don’t hold my job title against me. I have served on the Governing Body of the College for 5 years and have had over 25years experience in the trade union movement and presently serve as the Chair of Isle of Wight Unison (public service union), Local Government Branch.
Finally
If there are any issues of concern or if you would like greater clarity on anything you have read, then please feel free to contact me on the contact details below.
The election is on 13th of December 2007. There will be serious issues facing Ventnor as we progress further into the 21st century and we all need to work together to retain the character and quality of life we presently enjoy. Let’s keep it that way!
Please consider voting for me on the 13th, thank you.
Regards, Steve (Stephen) Cooper
Gills Cliff Road, Ventnor, Isle of Wight. PO38 1AD
E-mail; [email protected]
Mobile; 07870 731609
Promoted by Steve Cooper, Gills Cliff Road, Ventnor, Isle of Wight. PO38 1AD
Published by VentnorBlog
