As election season approaches, it’s crucial to remember that the choices we make at the ballot box will shape the future of our community. To make an informed decision, it's essential to engage with candidates and ask the right questions. This guide is designed to help you uncover whether the candidates share your values on key issues and if they possess the experience and vision necessary to effect meaningful change.

When evaluating candidates, it’s important to look beyond their campaign promises and delve into their track record and strategic thinking. Do they have a comprehensive, long-term strategy for growth, sustainability, and community well-being, or are they focused on single-issue agendas that lack a holistic approach? Identifying these "one-issue candidates" is crucial, as their narrow focus may not serve the broader needs of the community.

By asking pointed questions about their plans, priorities, and past achievements, you can better determine which candidates are equipped to navigate the complexities of local governance. This not only helps you find leaders who align with your values but also ensures that the people you elect have the experience and foresight to drive positive and lasting change.

Transparency and Sustainability in Budgets

When considering candidates for your local council, it’s vital to understand how they plan to manage the community’s budget. Ask candidates, “How will you ensure our budget is transparent and sustainable?” The best answers will demonstrate a commitment to transparency and sustainable financial practices, with specific examples of how they plan to achieve these goals. Look for candidates who detail clear strategies and have a history of implementing transparent practices.

Funding Priorities for Community Needs

Candidates should have a clear vision of the community’s financial priorities. Ask, “What are your top funding priorities for our community?” Strong candidates will have a detailed understanding of community needs and be able to explain how they will allocate funds to projects that address these needs. Request specifics on which projects will be prioritized and why, ensuring their plans align with the community’s most pressing issues.

Vision for Growth and Housing

Understanding a candidate's vision for community development is crucial. Ask them, “What is your vision for growth and housing in our community?” Effective candidates will articulate a clear vision with measurable goals for sustainable growth and housing. They should provide specific targets and timelines, reflecting a deep understanding of the balance between development and community impact.

Community Involvement in Development Decisions

Community involvement is key to successful development. Ask candidates, “How will you involve the community in development decisions?” Look for those who prioritise active community consultation and outline specific methods for engaging with residents. The frequency and inclusivity of these consultations are indicators of how well they will ensure that the community’s voice is heard in development projects.

Balancing Development with Environmental Sustainability

Sustainability is a critical aspect of modern development. Ask, “How do you plan to balance development with environmental sustainability?” Candidates should have strategies that promote sustainable development, with examples of initiatives they plan to implement to protect the environment while allowing for growth. Their commitment to this balance is crucial for the long-term health of the community.

Addressing Housing Affordability

Housing affordability is a pressing issue in many communities. Ask, “What measures will you take to address housing affordability?” Effective candidates will present specific policies or programs aimed at improving housing affordability and supporting diverse housing needs. They should be able to explain how their plans will help lower housing costs and increase access to affordable housing for all residents.

Operational Plan Priorities

A candidate’s operational plan reflects their ability to prioritize and execute important tasks. Ask, “What do you think are the top priorities in your operational plan?” Look for candidates who identify key priorities clearly and explain why these are chosen. Their ability to articulate how they will address these priorities with detailed action plans is critical for their effectiveness in office.

Achieving Quick Wins Without Band-Aid Solutions

Quick wins can boost community confidence, but they must contribute to long-term goals. Ask, “What could a quick win look like that is not a Band-Aid solution but part of a long-term strategy?” Candidates should provide examples of achievable, impactful actions that fit into a broader strategic plan. These quick wins should be steps towards sustainable, long-term improvements rather than temporary fixes.

Long-Term Strategic Planning

Long-term planning is essential for sustainable community development. Ask candidates, “What is your long-term strategy to address these priorities?” The best candidates will present a clear, strategic roadmap that outlines the steps they plan to take to achieve their goals. Detailed plans with specific timelines and milestones show that the candidate is prepared to lead effectively.

Capacity to Deliver on Promises

It’s important to assess whether candidates can deliver on their promises. Ask, “What are the top issues you aim to address if elected and how?” Effective candidates will have clear action plans and a track record of addressing similar issues successfully. Request specific examples of how they have tackled comparable challenges in the past to gauge their ability to fulfill their commitments.