1. What led you to run for Mayor?
When I learned that there had not been a woman elected Mayor of Port Stephens for 75 years, I was challenged to throw my hat into the ring.
2. This will be the first time the Mayor has been popularly elected in Port Stephens, why do you think the change was needed and how will it effect your chances?
At the last election in 2008 the residents of Port Stephens were asked if they wanted at publically elected Mayor and 75% said YES. I believe also that it is more democratic. I believe over the last 8 years I have built a reputation of being a woman of integrity and someone who gets things done. I am passionate in particular about our groups of volunteers who work so diligently to accomplish for Council.
3. Will it be beneficial for council and Port Stephens to now have a four year term for council?
It will give the Mayor an opportunity to build a strong cohesive team working together to achieve long term goals.
4. You have spent time as a councillor, how will that experience help you if elected as Mayor?
After 8 years as a Councilor and 2 years as Deputy Mayor, I understand how Council works and I have built relationships with staff and many volunteers committees in our community. I believe that residents trust me to represent their issues and to work with staff for the improvements of facilities In Port Stephens.
5. Port Stephens was the first to live stream council meetings, did you support that move and will it help the public make their vote now that the Mayor is now popularly elected?
Yes I did although I don’t particularly like to see myself on TV but I can appreciate that live televised meetings can be very helpful to those who cannot attend at Raymond Terrace.
6. What would be your main priority if elected?
To build a cohesive team of Councillors who will work together to achieve an efficient, pro active Council serving the community of Port Stephens.
7. What is your biggest challenge in winning this election?
Well I am a woman stepping into a man’s world, so prejudice is a strong opponent.
8. Why should rate payers have faith in you?
They have seen the hard work I have done over the last 8 years and I believe they are looking for a Mayor of integrity and determination to work for the betterment of the whole of Port Stephens.
9. How would you rate the performance of the current council and what would you change?
I believe we have been a courageous Council quick to defend residents who could have been discriminated against within our planning laws. We look at each item on its merit and vote accordingly. I would like us to be more together and not so divided and I believe I can achieve that.
10. How do you rate your chances of winning the election?
I believe the people of Port Stephens want a council that serves them. And I believe that I can continue to build on the foundation that is there to see that achieved. Our community want people to lead with action – and that’s what I intend to do, my chance are hopeful! After all someone once said “If you want a tough job done well give it to a woman”.
Well done Sally – You have the track record, the professional approach and have demonstrated balanced approach to your views. Love your work
We need to know – Central Ward – if Sally has leanings to or preferences to Labor, Greens or Liberal
I fully support the “for” section in the article on page 3, in the October 25 2012 edition of the Newcastle Herald, which shares the views of Port Stephens Deputy Mayor, Sally Dover.
One can understand, perhaps, why 22 % of our communities have no religious alliance, when the behaviour of some church leaders, as reported in the media, is considered.
Sally’s comments go way beyond what many people call “religion”, to remind us that we all have available to us, the opportunity to connect with the God of the Bible, through experiencing a life changing, personal relationship with His Son, The Lord Jesus Christ, who offers us the power to live abundantly in this life and to experience eternal life when our journey here is finished.