2009 By-Election Candidates
Massey Community Board

A list of all candidates for all issues as at close of nominations.

Massey Community Board candidates (1 vacancy)

Arthur Albert	Brian Neeson
Bob Jessopp	Karen Perri
Gayleen Maurice	Graeme Smith
Leigh Morrow	Jean Webster

Arthur Albert - Independent

I have lived in the Massey area for more than 25 years and consider that I have the necessary experience to easily represent and act for the full benefit of the Massey community

Also I believe in being upfront on various matters. Therefore I must say that I fully support any initiative/innovation that will provide improved local support services plus regular employment in the local area, by having a commercial airport at Whenuapai. I am well aware that there are some persons who are against any industry progress and how it may make a small interruption in their lifestyle. I'm fairly sure these persons utilise plane travel in other area's of Auckland rather than catching boats/ships for all their overseas travel.

As well during 2008 I did make a written submission to the Royal Commission on Auckland's Governance, for the retention of Waitakere city.

Bob Jessopp

I am proud to have served on the Massey Community Board from 2001-2007 as Chairman for one term and as a board member for the other.
I fully understand that I will be working with a team of people who are responsible to the Community of Massey for local issues and to help find suitable resolutions for residents concerns.

As I have recently been a working member of the Massey Community Board I have a clear understanding of local issues and ratepayer concerns.

I hope you will vote for me at this by-election and I give you my assurance that I will do my best for the community in my role as a Massey Community Board Member.

Gayleen Jacqueline Maurice - Independent

Passionate about local politics, I'm standing after missing by one candidate, from succeeding in maintaining my Community Board seat.

To this position I bring a wealth of involvement in Ranui, Massey, West Harbour, Hobsonville and Whenuapai. This places me in the unique position to have heard first-hand, wider opinions and solutions to current hot topics. Raised, and presently residing in Massey, I attained an M.A (Hons) while raising my family.

Currently Chairperson Massey Community House, Advisory Committee Massey Matters and Tatou West Harbour projects, Waitakere Parent Aid, Te Raa Mokopuna Day, supporter Neighbourhood Support, Ranui Action Project, Pacific Wardens Trust.

I may disagree with your views at times, but whether you represent an organisation such as a Residents and Ratepayers or approach me as an individual, I will present your views and lobby on your behalf in a fair and equitable way. I appreciate your interest.

Leigh Morrow

I have lived in West Harbour for 10 years and prior to that in Massey for 10 years.

I have been Secretary of the Hobsonville/West Harbour Residents and Ratepayers Association since 2006. Through my involvement in the Association I have gained a lot of insight into how Council operates and become familiar with the issues affecting our community.
Above all; I am committed to having ratepayers voices heard and am very concerned that communication between Council and the community should be improved and see the Community Board as an important link, particularly with ratepayers groups and community organisations.

I work locally and have been involved in various organisations in voluntary roles. I support the Massey Matters forum which works to integrate community interests across the ward and initiatives to provide facilities for our population. I am committed to representing Ratepayers First by seeking your opinion and expressing your concerns.

Brian Neeson - Independent

Brian is married to Vanessa, has four children, 12 grandchildren and has lived in the Massey ward for 25 years.

He is the director of two private companies and is an elected member of the Waitemata District Health Board. He was the local National member of Parliament for 12 years and was (still is) deeply involved in all local issues. His knowledge of Massey and its people is extensive. He is not frightened to speak out and is known for his no nonsense style. His experience and leadership abilities will add value to the Massey Community Board at a time of change and redevelopment.

Brian says "Rate rises by council in the midst of an unprecedented economic downturn will need to be contested vigorously. Wasteful or unnecessary spending will have to come to an end. No more using ratepayers as cash cows that can simply be milked to death."

Karen Perri - Green Party

I have always lived in West Auckland, apart from 10 years in Europe and the Middle East. I raised my family here and work as a registered nurse in general practice.

I am Chairperson of the Ranui Community House, and involved in local ventures like the Ranui community garden, cooking and preserving classes using fresh food at the Ranui Community House and diabetes education classes.

I am a member of the Green Party and try to live a life that is slower and more caring about people. I grow my own vegetables and those for the cooking classes. I believe that we all have a responsibility to make our own backyards liveable in a sustainable way, without infringing on the beliefs of our neighbours and the more we can join together as small communities and work with each other for the common good, the better it is for everyone.

Graeme Smith

I bring to the Community Board a good knowledge of the wider Massey Community, its challenges, potential and opportunities.

My experience as chairman of Neighbourhood Support and knowledge of community development, community awareness and community ownership can bring significant experience, skill and objectivity to the ongoing Massey development and community enhancement projects.

Over the years my community work has included a number of significant roles: Residents and Ratepayers committees, business improvement projects, involvement with The Salvation Army, NZ Army Territorial Force, Scouting, Rotary, Public Relations, fundraising, quality assurance, business consulting and Ownership of the Peninsula bookshop, Off the Shelf Books Limited.

I am able to work independently and achieve goals and objectives, but also contribute to team programmes and support others in seeking and achieving their goals.

Jean Webster - Independent

My family and I have lived in Massey for over thirty years.

Previously a Teacher Aide at Birdwood School for 16 years I now work as Community Support Worker in an assisted living house for Spectrumcare Trust in Massey. I am standing for this by-election because of my interest in the community and the effect that councils can have on our everyday lives.

I was elected onto the first Massey Community Board in 1989 and remained a member until 2004. During that time I served on the Hearings, Liquor Licensing and the District Plan Committees for Massey Ward.

My understanding of the Massey Community Board and Waitakere City Council makes me an ideal candidate for this by-election.

I know the processes involved and will make sure that any issues Massey residents have are brought to the attention of those best able to deal with them.

2009 By-Election Candidates Massey Community Board