Listen to this week’s podcast.

6m “One eye open” – Albi & The Wolves
10m INTERVIEW with Paula Southgate Hamilton City
28:30m “It ain’t easy” Albi & The Wolves
30:45m INTERVIEW continued
48:32m “Don’t blink” Cartoon Villain
50:30m Local events
54.30m “Mayday” The Recently Deceived

We’re joined by Hamilton East City Councillor, and current chair of the Community services and environment committee Paula Southgate Hamilton City  She shares her journey from kindergarten committee to Hamilton City Councillor – as we talk about some of the barriers to entering politics when you have a young family.

She explains what the ‘Local indigenous biodiversity pilot’ is and why she’s ‘speaking for the bats’.  Sometimes its hard to reconcile growth of cities with environmental protection – and this is a current concern with the plans for Peacocke.  It seems the best way to ensure that the environment is not forgotten is to make sure the Councillors know it is a priority for you.  Paula was with the Waikato Regional Council for 15 years so is well versed in environmental issues – which is a win for us as she understands the interconnections.

We discuss how we might improve feedback to council, and encourage more residents to have their say on the issues.   She shared advice on encouraging some of the skilled and passionate leaders in our community to campaign for a seat at the council table next year.  (Interview starts at 10min).

Podcast link here.