Real Independents want to continue progress of last two-and-a-half ...

2 September 2024

The Real Independents, a group led by current Mayor Zoë Baker and Councillor MaryAnn Beregi, are running in the upcoming North Sydney Council election with a focus on continuing the work they started over the past two and a half years.

The group, which emphasises its independence from large donors, said it is committed to representing the community’s interests without external influences and maintaining a strong focus on transparency, sustainability and community engagement.

“Our team is made up of residents who are not aligned with any political party or large donors,” a spokesperson for the Real Independents explained. “We believe it is crucial to have independent representatives who prioritise the needs of the community over personal or political gain. Our commitment is to the people of North Sydney, and our decisions are driven by what is best for the community.”

Mayor Zoe Baker, who has served on the council since 2008, said she has been instrumental in leading initiatives that aim to strengthen community connections and integrate sustainability into the council’s decision-making processes.

“Zoe brings energy, intelligence, and integrity to her role,” the spokesperson noted.

“She has a deep passion for urban design and planning, and she’s dedicated to ensuring that council decisions are informed by sustainability and innovation. Throughout her tenure, she has worked tirelessly to make North Sydney a better place to live, work, and study.”

Councillor MaryAnn Beregi first joined the council in 2012 and shares a similar commitment to community-focused governance, according to the group.

“MaryAnn is focused on making North Sydney an inclusive, vibrant, and accessible area for everyone,” the spokesperson said. “She is dedicated to implementing evidence-based decision-making and ensuring that the council remains fiscally responsible and sustainable. Her experience and commitment have been invaluable in shaping policies that reflect the community’s needs and priorities.”

The Real Independents are campaigning on a platform that builds on the initiatives they say they have championed during the current council term which was shortened to under three years.

They see this election as an opportunity to continue the progress they have made and ensure that the council remains responsive to the needs of the community. “This has been a short term, and there is a real concern that the good policies and projects we’ve established could be at risk without continued representation,” the spokesperson explained.

“Our goal is to consolidate the progress made over the past two years and continue building a positive future for North Sydney.”

Key issues the Real Independents plan to focus on if re-elected include implementing the actions and plans developed through The Next 10 Years community engagement initiative, which they view as a cornerstone for future development in North Sydney. “We’re committed to seeing through the long-term vision we’ve helped shape with the community’s input,” the spokesperson said.

The group also intends to work closely with the State Government to ensure the return of public land at key sites, including Cammeray, Anzac, and St Leonards Parks, Berry’s Bay, Woodley’s Shed, and Bradfield Park. Protecting the community against the impacts of over-development is another priority, as is advocating for improved public infrastructure such as schools, hospitals, and public transport. “We believe that North Sydney deserves to benefit from well-planned and sustainable development that enhances the community rather than overwhelms it,” the spokesperson remarked.

In addition to infrastructure and development, the Real Independents are focused on environmental initiatives, such as expanding green space, increasing the tree canopy, and delivering more affordable housing in partnership with the State and Federal Governments. They also plan to complete the cycle network and expand opportunities for active transport, aiming to help North Sydney develop as a walkable and bike-friendly community.

“We are focused on ensuring that access and inclusion are at the heart of council’s plans, policies, and services,” the spokesperson added. “Our aim is to create a community where everyone feels welcome and supported, regardless of their background or circumstances.”

The Real Independents also highlight their achievements over the past two plus years, pointing to the creation of new public open spaces and their opposition to the Western Harbour Tunnel/Warringah Freeway Upgrade.

“We’ve worked hard to protect our community from the negative impacts of poorly planned infrastructure projects,” the spokesperson said. “We’ve also delivered 100% renewable electricity for council properties and streetlights, established the Sustainability Festival and Fix It Hub, and initiated the FOGO trial to promote more sustainable waste management.”

“We’ve made it a priority to foster a sense of belonging and inclusion in our community,” the spokesperson said.

The Real Independents have also faced what they say is the “challenge” of managing the North Sydney Olympic Pool project, which they describe as an inherited, poorly conceived and poorly planned initiative.