The presumed artistic and cultural leanings of gays, diversity, reigning in rates and the spectre of council exposure to leaky home claims were the main topics aired at tonight's GABA Mayoral Forum. Around two hundred gays and lesbians, many from the Gay Auckland Business Association's own ranks, packed an inner-city Auckland cafe to hear largely predictable addresses and promises from Mayoral hopefuls eager to snap up gay and lesbian votes. Dr John Hinchcliffe was first to quote the much-publicised research by Richard Florida which postulates a link between economically healthy cities and their acceptance of gays and lesbians. The former Vice-Chancellor of Auckland's University of Technology, Hinchcliffe cited the AUT's reputation as a gay and lesbian-friendly environment and his personal philosophy of "respect for people and their diversity." Pornography czar Steve Crowe told the gathering that as a "broadminded" mayor he would push for the Hero Parade to be expanded into a Mardi-Gras style event. His belief that gays and lesbians in Auckland don't need any help from the city's Mayor "because you're already equal" concerned some of the audience. His surprise that some gay and lesbian citizens are unable to be open about their sexuality for fear of retribution prompted one audience member to question: "do you really know anything about us?" Central city business booster Alex Swney repeated the "artistic and cultural" mantra, quoted the Florida report and promised a city which celebrates diversity. He argued for a much increased events budget, claimed the credential of having a lesbian sister whose partner was accepted into the family, and pledged a mayoralty based on inclusivity. John Banks, bravely fronting up to an audience which was generally sceptical about his gay and lesbian-cred, acknowledged "the substantial contribution" made to Auckland by gay and lesbian businesspeople. He promised goodwill, openness and transparency of governance and stated that he has always treated gay and lesbian people with "respect and dignity." Lesbian candidate Lisa Prager presented herself as an alternative to Banks and the incumbent Mayor Hubbard "who are the same as each other", urging the gathering to be brave and vote for her. She promised to break with the secrecy and waste which she says characterises the Council bureaucracy and highlighted her recent revelation of high council spending on consultants and reliance on highly-paid contractors. And "I want to see community initiatives funded," she said. The lowest profile was presented by Coralie Van Camp who was another candidate placing great store in the "artistic and cultural talent" of gays and lesbians. She presented several priorities, such as sensible rates and protection of heritage and described herself as an idealist. Incumbent mayor Dick Hubbard drew the last speaking slot, and made much of his learning about the lives of gays and lesbians after an early anti-gay blunder which he attributed to "moving in different circles" from gays and lesbians. He cited his regular attendance at Hero's Big Gay Out, HIV/AIDS church services and his hosting of a town hall function marking 20 years of Law reform in New Zealand. Hubbard summed up his attitude as one that looks to the future of the city. Rates, leaky homes liability, council spending and open decision making dominated most candidates' addresses and the questioning which followed. Challenged by past GABA president Johnny Givens to declare their skills and qualifications for the job of Mayor, most candidates instead repeated their policy planks. The exceptions were John Banks, who declared that he is a proven leader who will not shirk from hard decisions, and Dick Hubbard, who cited his building up a thriving breakfast foods business and ability to work with people. The GABA Mayoral Forum has become a regular and respected feature of Auckland local body elections, as evidenced by a strong media contingent. Closing the function, the moderator for the evening, the Hon. Judith Tizard, urged all present at the good-humoured function to engage in the running of the city by ensuring they vote in the elections. Voting opens on September 13 and closes at noon on October 13. Radio New Zealand's coverage of the event is available to hear on the link below. Ref: GayNZ.com (j)
Credit: GayNZ.com News Staff
First published: Wednesday, 5th September 2007 - 11:25pm