10 QUESTIONS WITH CORDELIA BURCHAM – Cessnock Mayoral Candidate

1. What led you to run for Mayor?

As the Liberal Mayoral candidate in the Cessnock Local Government area I bring a team of candidates who are capable, dedicated and enthusiastic people. As the experienced leader of the group, having served 2012 as Deputy Mayor, and as the Ward A Councillor since 2008, I understand the community expects much. There needs to be a steady, firm leadership to manage our finances and promote jobs growth via investment. I believe I have to drive, the vision and ability to do
this.

2. How would you change what has been a dysfunctional council?

We need good strong leadership and representation not only to our community, but also to other areas and levels of government. This has been lacking in recent times, I believe at 43 I have the right mix of youthfulness and experience to bring our council back to focus. It is something I have been involved in and have a comprehensive understanding of the legal issues brought about by the current mayor. This needs to be rectified.

3. Given the turmoil that has surrounded council, why are you the best person to
lead Cessnock?

I have been witness to the breakdown in communication between the administration of Cessnock Council and our community. I have stood up for the community, even in the face of great personal adversity, because I believe our area deserves much more. It’s time to get back to the business of doing what the community wants rather than imposing red tape.

4. There are 10 Mayor candidates, is this the worst outcome given that the election is now likely to be decided on preferences?

I believe the people of our towns understand that they alone can determine who
they prefer as candidate.
I encourage the voters to look hard at who are the realistic chances and consider the importance of their vote.

5. Who are you preferencing?

The voter has the choice who they want to vote for, there is an option to vote
only for one candidate or for the voter to prefer more than one on the ballot
paper.

6. What would be your main priority if elected?

I have a determination to advocate on behalf of my city, the focus needs to be on job creation, easy to understand processes for economic development. Encouraging and seeking investment to promote opportunities for ratepayers to get jobs locally.
I continue my commitment to the community by being available and following through. I have shown this over the past four years. With a firm but fair focus, my team are ready to work for our local people. If you want good leadership, Vote Liberal.

7. What is your biggest challenge in winning this election?

It’s true the entire process is challenging, however I have always represented my community fairly and my commitment to them is well known. I believe people want good representation and I will ask for their vote on that basis.

8. Why should rate payers have faith in you?

Our infrastructure networks have fallen into a poor condition and we need to be
seeking State and Federal funding to repair our roads. We have to drive away from
our towns to other areas for shopping to Rutherford, Maitland or the Central
Coast. For too long areas surrounding us have thrived while we have missed out.
It’s time to elect a leader who will lead, not to be asleep on the job. Let’s
create and keep jobs local. There’s so much potential for our area, it’s exciting
to realise we are embarking on a new era for the wider Cessnock area.

9. How would you rate the performance of the current council and what would you
change?

The current council has had a lot of positives, unfortunately there have been too many negatives under the leadership of the outgoing mayor. There needs to be a back to the community focus, a fair and balanced council. Under my leadership there will be a team approach, I have been able to work well with all councillors from all different political sides, this is extremely important when doing the work of our city. As people know I’m always available and approachable so this will be a stark contrast to the past leadership style.

10. How do you rate your chances of winning the election?

In the heart of every candidate, hope springs eternal.