Introduction: My is Steve Semmens and I have lived in Bathurst for almost 5 years along with my wife who is a 5th Generation Bathurstian. I have been actively involved in many aspects of the Bathurst community. I am a local businessperson, family man, and sessional lecturer who is passionate about giving back and contributing to the Bathurst community. Currently, I am President of the Rotary Club of Bathurst, Vice President of the Bathurst Business Chamber, and on the Bathurst Regional Council Safety Committee. I have been on the executive committee of Bathurst Toastmasters for the past 4 years, I am White Ribbon Ambassador, and I was recently in the Stars of Bathurst raising money for the Cancer Council. I actively encourage local businesses to engage and collaborate on community projects to improve and benefit wonderful Bathurst. I’m running to make Bathurst better by encouraging different stakeholders to work together and become the leading tech hub, education hub, and tourism hub in Australia, all of which is great news for small business. My passion is small business and want to ensure they have a voice on Council.
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Popularly-elected mayor: Yes. I think it a fairer system and the decision as to who will be Mayor should be made by the people. True democracy in action!
Water sale: I would support the sale of recycled water provided that all environmental impacts have been explored to the satisfaction of the majority of the community. The mine is still going ahead. Yet, 1000’s of litres of fresh water is being lost by other businesses free usage. It is my understanding that usage is not been monitored or metered. Perhaps the Greens and their supporters may like to investigate the HUGE loss of water out of our river systems instead of killing over 600 jobs to the Bathurst region and some 80 million dollars per year coming into our communities. Imagine how well our small businesses would be doing now with that sort of cash injection into their revenues. A win win solution could have been found. Too late now.
Roundabout: If black spot funding is not provided soon let’s just get the job done. It is a safety issue and needs to take priority. Perhaps, the 200k that was spent on the Dunkeld Kennels case could have gone to building the roundabout?
Australia Day: Yes, keep current Australia Day as all of our histories are important. I would encourage our Indigenous community to get more involved as way of being united, celebrating their amazing history, and together moving forward.
TAFE building: Keep its heritage aspects and turn it into a film, arts, and drama centre for all of the community to enjoy. It would be ideal space for starting off our own commercial film industry.
Rates cap: No not at this stage. There are other ways to raise funds without having to squeeze the ratepayers every year.
Christmas decorations: Yes, most definitely. I do not understand the reluctance of Council to not get more involved in the festive season.
CCTV: It is a no brainer and the Business community has pushed for this several times.
Demolition by neglect: Depends on the situation. If it being done deliberately and the home is of significant heritage value then apply the rule of common sense.
Attendance: Three this year. If I do not get elected I will be attending many more as question time is a great opportunity to highlight local issues and successes.
