Division 9 Councillor candidate, Mr Jason Colley, embarked on his election campaign, employing the age-old method of door knocking.
The data and analytics expert said a lack of consultation and engagement with local constituents fuelled his decision to run for a council position, emphasizing his commitment to proactive problem-solving over complaints.
“I’m not a whinger,” he said. “I’m a solution-based person, and I put my money where my mouth is.”
Mr. Colley, married and the father of two, noted the positive response from people who appreciated the opportunity to express their views directly during his door-knock visits. A common concern he found was the desire for increased transparency in council expenditure.
“There’s a cost-of-living crisis, and people are worried about high rate charges. They want to know where their money is going and demand value for it.”
In addition to addressing financial transparency, Mr. Colley expressed his vision for the Redland area, aiming for enhanced employment opportunities and transforming it into more than just a dormitory suburb.
“There needs to be more commercial facilities,” he said, urging the council, when necessary, to reconsider the Planning Scheme to facilitate such developments.
Mr. Colley said he had recently spoken with a local businessman who had to relocate to find larger premises, impacting more than 100 employees.
Infrastructure improvement feature prominently in his agenda, and he advocates for negotiations with all tiers of government to secure road and transport improvements including convenient access to major arterial networks.
Mr Colley has a broad range of experience across the corporate sector, working with startup businesses and most recently local government, Mr Colley is a regular volunteer with several community groups, including Capalaba Parkrun. He also serves on the committee of the Capalaba Warriors Rugby League Club and is a member of the Redland City Council Local Disaster Coordination Centre (LDCC).
FAST FACTS
- Council elections are in March 2024.
- Division 9 is made up of Sheldon, Capalaba, Thornlands.
- The Census usual resident population of Redland City in 2021 was 159,222, living in 65,213 dwellings with an average household size of 2.56.
