Christine Keene - Independent

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Q. What do you consider to be the most important issue facing the Ward you would be elected to represent?

A. The most important issue facing Gosford West Ward, which includes Gosford City, is jobs.

People live on the Central Coast because it offers a relaxing lifestyle in a beautiful location yet they spend hours a day commuting to work, often to Sydney.

The unemployment level is very high and crime and drug use are rising.

We must provide local employment opportunities for all ages.

Q. What do you consider to be the most important issue facing the Central Coast Local Government Area?

A. Local jobs should be the main focus for the entire Central Coast.

We must provide all residents the opportunity to work locally and contribute directly to the Central Coast community.

We need to achieve a dramatic increase in the number of businesses operating on the Central Coast, commitment from these businesses to provide work experience programs for school leavers and all youth, police to work with businesses to understand their needs in providing a safe environment for their workers and correctional facilities to discuss with businesses opportunities they can provide for deserving individuals.

Q. How would you, if elected to Council, set about addressing that issue for (a) your Ward, (b) the region?

A. Take stock of all available commercial and retail space.

Council to work with owners to dust it off and make it presentable for renting to major businesses.

List the space through local and Sydney-based agents.

Council to directly approach major business brands in Sydney.

Council to offer incentives to businesses that relocate or establish branch offices on the Central Coast.

Council to maintain strong relationships with businesses so they feel part of the community.

SOURCE:

Statement, 25 Aug 2017

Christine Keene, Independent