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Amanda Hopkins is standing for the Wairoa subdivision on the Franklin Local
Board under the Team Franklin banner.
I have lived in the Wairoa area of Franklin for over 20 years, have served the last three years as your Franklin Local Board member and have been active in our community organisations for many years.
Franklin continues to grow, and our infrastructure struggles to keep up. The roads degrade quickly, traffic and heavy truck numbers are increasing, and public transport options are often limited or non-existent, so we have no choice but to drive. My focus is on working for better and safer roads and decent public transport.
I am also concerned with the effect of development on our environment and communities. I want to see our areas thrive and grow in a sustainable way. Private Plan Changes, as we’ve seen in Drury and Beachlands South have massive knock-on effects for the wider area.
These effects must be mitigated, the roads and transport improved, and our lives enhanced with better services and spaces. We also see more applications for industrial activities in our rural areas, or often activities without consent, where it is not appropriate, it should be stopped.
Auckland Council should run our core services, control spending, support local groups and economic growth and avoid vanity projects.
As part of a strong Team Franklin, we can get things done. Problem solving, persistence and collaboration work. We understand the council and have good working relationships.
I worked for many years in the international financial markets before returning to Auckland with my family. I also love sports and am a board member of Tennis Auckland and Fencing NZ.
I am committed to working towards providing a better future for Franklin.