Kate Borland.
KATE BORLAND, INDEPENDENT with a ‘‘save public housing’’ policy
What are the top three issues facing Melbourne residents and how would you address them?
I am standing on the issue of Save Public Housing and on that single issue I am calling for support. However, my support of public housing is consistent with my other principles. Moreover actions taken by consecutive governments to privatise Victoria’s public assets.
What is your vision to help the homeless, mentally ill and dispossessed?
(We need to) create more public housing and independent-living environments where they are offered external support and options about what direction their lives could take.
What will you do about Melbourne’s population growth and high-rise development?
Neither of these things is necessarily negative as long as they are managed properly. Many high-density environments have great communities.
Is heritage being protected adequately in the Melbourne electorate? Will you fix what is broken in heritage protection?
In general I am in favour of protecting our architectural heritage. Why do we continue to sell off and destroy all the wonderful history told through the bricks and mortar of our past? Our buildings and environments should remain as a template for future generations.
If elected, which party would you vote with in State Parliament? Would you cross the floor if you believe your chosen party’s position is not in Melbourne’s interests? Conversely, would you vote against the interests of the Melbourne electorate for the greater benefit of Victoria?
I am an independent and I would vote according to my conscience.
What shape should the east-west road link project take? Should it be built at all?
We need to invest in more public transport, so no, I am not in favour of building the east-west road link.
Will you support Moonee Valley Council’s plan for a bike lane on Mt Alexander Road, at the expense of a car lane, even if it results in increased traffic congestion?
I am in favour of more bike lanes in theory but not at the cost of increasing already severe traffic congestion.
How would you fix traffic congestion at Flemington Showgrounds and racecourse during major events?
We need more efficient public transport.
If elected would you lobby for the reunification of Carlton (returning Princes Hill/Carlton North to Melbourne City Council)?
It makes more sense to integrate Carlton into Yarra along with its sister suburbs of Collingwood and Fitzroy.
What steps, if any, will you take to restore public confidence and ensure that the Melbourne City Council is open and transparent?
All Victorians should have a say in the election of the Melbourne City Council as the business and administrative centre of the state affects all Victorians.