Milson Rotary Member, Orphee Mickalad's talk covered a range of topics, focusing on his candidacy for mayor and the challenges facing Palmerston North.
He began by reflecting on his journey from being a former refugee to becoming a city councillor, emphasising the honour and privilege of serving the community. Orphee highlighted the need for fresh leadership and an alternative vision for the city, driven by the mounting pressures of rising rates, housing costs, climate change, and population growth.
He proposed several key initiatives to address these challenges:
1. Reviewing Council Spending: Orphee emphasised the importance of delivering value for money and easing the rate burden on residents by deferring or reducing certain programs.
2. Diversifying Revenue Streams: He suggested introducing user-pays models for non-essential services and selling underused council assets to alleviate financial pressures.
3. Lobbying Central Government: Orphee stressed the need for effective lobbying to secure investment deals and funding for key infrastructure projects.
4. Supporting Local Businesses: He advocated for leveraging local expertise in council procurement and minimizing regulations to attract investment and support new and existing businesses.
5. Addressing Housing Issues: Orphee proposed partnering with providers and central government to build social housing and revising planning rules to allow for more diverse housing options.
6. Improving Infrastructure: He highlighted the need for smart growth planning, cost-effective wastewater management, and inclusive urban design.
7. Environmental Initiatives: Orphee underscored the importance of clean rivers, green spaces, and emergency management preparedness to enhance the city's liveability.
Throughout his talk, Orphee emphasised the importance of community engagement and the democratic process, encouraging everyone to vote and participate in shaping the future of Palmerston North.
