Coates covets Central Ward seat

DEPUTY mayor Cr Belinda Coates is set to run once again for candidate for Central Ward in the 2020 local government elections.

As Ballarat’s first Greens endorsed councillor, Cr Coates was first elected in 2012, re-elected in 2016 and is hoping to return for a third term in council.

Growing up in Ballarat and working as a social worker for over 20 years, Cr Coates said she understands the city and the social issues it faces on a deep level.

“I’m extremely passionate and connected to the community and committed to the idea of contributing to positive change in our community,” she said.

“It’s about trying to represent everyone and acting in the best interest of community so no one’s left behind.

“I believe, no matter who you are you should still have the opportunity to have a government that acts in your interest.”

Cr Coates said she’s running again to continue her commitment to environmental and climate action, transparency and advocacy for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community members, multicultural groups, people with disabilities, LGBTIQ+, refugees and asylum seekers.

If re-elected, she said her focus will remain consistent on these solving the issues within these sectors.

“We’re really fortunate in many ways but there are also improvements that still need to happen,” she said.

“I’ve often been a lone voice and faced some staunch opposition but still managed to achieve positive changes for the community.

“I have worked through some really difficult issues for the long-term benefit of the city and would continue to do that.”

With a ongoing commitment to climate action in mind, Cr Coates spearheaded the City of Ballarat’s carbon neutrality and 100 per cent renewables action plan with commitment to 2025 target.

Although she said this is a good first step, if re-elected she’ll be pushing council to consider creating similar initiatives for a wider scope of the city.

“Taking action on climate change is something which most people would agree is important in every level of government,” she said.

“I hope to build on this action plan for a whole community target that goes beyond just the council for the entire city towards zero emissions and carbon neutrality.

“I hope the community will push and advocate for that but it is something that I can continue to work on if I’m re-elected.”

Cr Coates said it’s vital for residents to appreciate their influence in their communities and on their local government.

“It is really important for people to understand that they can have an impact, whether that’s in their choice of who they vote for to represent them or getting involved in community issues and consultation, action and campaigns,” she said.

“The more that people know about how they can influence, it’s actually a really positive thing for people to learn about their own community and how they can shape it in their own way.

“It’s more important now than ever that people feel connected to their community, neighbourhood and whole city.”