Here’s the candidate profile for Bev Kenney, 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: Bev Kenney
- Party: Stone Independents
- 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?
Yes I live in Stone. We used to live in the ward years ago. Being a long term resident I know Stone well and could represent any ward.
2. Are you involved in any Stone-based charities, schools, groups, sports clubs, etc.? If so, in what capacity?
Stone in Bloom and a volunteer for the Crown Wharf Theatre.
3. If elected, what will you, as a councillor, bring to the council?
I can bring my business skills having run a successful business for 20 years. Value and quality is high upon my list. I am very much a hands on person and don’t mind rolling my sleeves up when required.
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?
Everyone is entitled to an opinion and everyone should be listened to despite their background and opinion. I am always available at the end of a phone or drop me an email.
5. What do you think are the three most important issues facing the Stone community, and how do you plan to address them?
Crime & Anti Social behaviour, vibrancy of Stone and the infrastructure such as doctors and dentists. If they are not within the remit of Stone Town Council then putting pressure on the relevant authorities is a must.
6. How do you propose to ensure that the local economy continues to thrive and support all local businesses?
Town Council run events, marketing, supporting local events and the various organisation that run them.
7. How do you plan to work with other members of the council to achieve your goals?
There is a structure within Stone Town Council such as Committees, working groups, and working together for the betterment of Stone.
8. How would you balance the needs of different groups and priorities when making budget decisions?
Quality and value for money are first consideration, also the number of residents that benefit from a budgeted item. Smaller grants are available for organisations.
9. What is your position on local environmental issues, such as climate change, pollution, and waste management?
Environmental issues are very important and must be addressed .Stone Town Council) must do what it can within its remit. They have already started to deal with these issues and must continue to do. We need to encourage residents to do the same.
10. How will you ensure that your role as a councillor receives the required time and effort to carry it out effectively?
I’m hardworking and dedicated to the tasks I take on
Candidate-Specific Questions:
1. What five words would people who know you use to describe you?
Honest, hard-working, generous, kind and considerate.
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?
No I haven’t made any representations but I’ve always had an interest in the local issues. I’ve often offered myself as an advisory role to my husband in his role as a Councillor.
3. How can candidates be classed as “independent” when they are all united as a group under a single political banner? How is this different from voting in line with a national political party?
We can vote how we want but generally because we all want is best for Stone were normally in agreement. With the diversity of gender and age within our group you can always get a balanced approach. I will be able to vote how I want and will when the occasions arise.
4. What’s your pledge to the people of Stone if you’re elected?
Hard work and dedication
