Here’s the candidate profile for Kathryn Williams, who is standing in the May 2023 elections. All candidates were asked ten core questions; then, there were specific questions depending on whether candidates were existing councillors or not.
All answers appear unedited, apart from maybe tweaks to formatting, as sent through by the candidates.
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- Candidate Name:Kathryn Williams
- Party: Labour Party
- Election: Stone Town Council
- Ward: St. Michael’s
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Core Candidate Questions
1. Do you live in Stone and within the ward(s) you’re standing in? If not, what is your motivation for standing in Stone and not your own ward?
I live in Stone town centre. I feel that our lovely town has such a strong community identity that many issues are shared across the town and I look forward to being part of a Council where we work as a whole team to deliver the best for our residents, no matter which ward they live in.
2. Are you involved in any Stone-based charities, schools, groups, sports clubs, etc.? If so, in what capacity?
I am involved in the local Labour Party’s activities towards improving our town by engaging with the community and listening to the views of people from all backgrounds. I am the Women’s Officer for Stone Labour Branch and I aim to make women’s voices more of a focus in local politics.
3. If elected, what will you, as a councillor, bring to the council?
Having not been a Councillor before, I believe I will bring a much-needed freshness and enthusiasm to the group. There are strong, consistent voices on our local Council but I believe that the addition of a fresh pair of eyes is never a bad thing for any organisation.
4. How do you plan to engage with and represent the interests of all members of the Stone community, including those from diverse backgrounds or with differing opinions?
I will make myself available for correspondence from members of the community and be a consistent presence at local town events. Having lived and travelled in different parts of our country and the world, I am used to interacting with people from a range of backgrounds and cultures. My career as an NHS nurse has equipped me with the skills to listen and advocate for the most vulnerable in our communities.
5. What do you think are the three most important issues facing the Stone community, and how do you plan to address them?
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There has been significant residential development in Stone and its surrounding villages over the last few years and unfortunately provision of local services has not kept pace. Local GP, dental and social care provision is inadequate and I will work to hold developers and decision-makers accountable for ensuring that profit-making developments do not continue to outstrip the needs of the town’s inhabitants.
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Our beautiful local environment is in danger from the out-of-control HS2 project and sewage dumping in our waterways. This is another example of the danger of allowing private companies to use basic utilities for profit, without contributing to the communities who live with the consequences. As a Labour Councillor, I will demand accountability around these issues and ensure that local voices are represented.
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Our roads are in a terrible state and not enough action has been taken by the governing bodies responsible. Local Labour Party members have been active in reporting potholes and we have seen several of them addressed, however there is always more to be done, and I will engage with this on an ongoing basis.
6. How do you propose to ensure that the local economy continues to thrive and support all local businesses?
Small businesses need more support and a review of rates in the High Street. We can also attract more people to the town by reviewing parking facilities, pushing for better investment in public transport, addressing littering, graffiti and antisocial behaviour.
7. How do you plan to work with other members of the council to achieve your goals?
It is so important to ensure that all views are represented, particularly at this current time, when there seems to be a sense of people not feeling listened to by politicians on a national scale. As a local Councillor, I will put local issues ahead of factional politics and be open to feedback from the community on how we can continue to improve.
8. How would you balance the needs of different groups and priorities when making budget decisions?
Government spending must be based on social justice as well as the financial bottom line. The last 13 years has seen the national government put the wants of the few ahead of the needs of the many, and I do not think that local government has demanded sufficient accountability. This has resulted in the most vulnerable people – our elderly and those with social care needs – receiving less financial support while a small number of individuals make record profits. I will ensure that the needs of our elderly and vulnerable populations are voiced when making budgetary decisions so that the Council’s work benefits everyone.
9. What is your position on local environmental issues, such as climate change, pollution, and waste management?
The local environment is under threat from HS2, sewage dumping and out of control development, such as the monstrous construction on the A34 at Walton, which was not sufficiently challenged by the current Council. Local services such as refuse collection also require an overhaul, as they are especially insufficient for people living in flats and social housing. Pollution could be reduced by improving woefully-inadequate public transport. The Council must take a stronger position on these issues. As a new Councillor embodying Labour’s vision for a Fairer, Greener Future, I will challenge the complacency shown by local government on environmental issues in recent years.
10. How will you ensure that your role as a councillor receives the required time and effort to carry it out effectively?
Although I have a busy job in the NHS, I do not stand for this role lightly and will devote time to Council meetings and local events as required. With the support of my colleagues in the Labour Party, I will work as a team with people across the political spectrum to give local people the time and attention they deserve.
Candidate-Specific Questions:
- What five words would people who know you use to describe you?
Enthusiastic, hardworking, articulate, compassionate, non-judgemental.
2. As you’re passionate about local politics and issues, have you ever previously made a public representation to the council about an issue that you think needs addressing? If so, what was the issue, and how did the council handle it?
I have not made a representation to the Council. We are lucky to have benefited from some longstanding local Council members, but I feel that as a younger, fresher voice, I will inject necessary enthusiasm and improve the Council’s record on holding developers and government bodies to account.
3. How does being affiliated with a national political party benefit you being a councillor at a local level?
The Labour Party’s vision for a Fairer, Greener Future and our focus on increasing investment in public services for the many, not the few, emboldens me to improve the Council’s record on challenging the status quo. The complacency of the last 13 years of Conservative government must be challenged to prevent rural areas like ours from being left behind.
4. How do you respond to the criticism that you have to toe a party line and vote in line with your peers?
The Labour Party was created to represent the needs of hardworking people and put the good of the community ahead of corporate greed and elitism. These values empower me to vote with my conscience for the benefit of fellow townspeople ahead of narrower interests.
5. What’s your pledge to the people of Stone if you’re elected?
Stone and its surrounding areas are truly special places with an unrivalled sense of community. The government has failed us in the last 13 years and I am ready to use my enthusiasm and knowledge to shake this up. I know that we are all ready for a change and hope you will give me the opportunity to work in your interests.
