Here’s the candidate profile for Nancy Powell, 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: Nancy Powell
- Party: Stone Independents
- Election: Stone Town Council
- Ward: Walton South
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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 Walton as does my Mum, so I am familiar with the issues residents of differing ages face within the area.
2. Are you involved in any Stone-based charities, schools, groups, sports clubs, etc.? If so, in what capacity?
As Mayoress, I have been fortunate to be introduced to a number of local charities and groups and have really enjoyed understanding what they bring to the community. Whilst I am not currently part of any, my aim is to be in the future.
3. If elected, what will you, as a councillor, bring to the council?
The experience of supporting Jon as Mayor over the past two years has really opened my eyes to the challenges faced locally. I would like to be able to channel that knowledge into bringing further discussion points to the table and potentially offer an alternative approach to existing issues.
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 am approachable and will always be a sounding board for those who want to be heard. All points of view are valid and should be considered.
5. What do you think are the three most important issues facing the Stone community, and how do you plan to address them?
HS2 and the associated traffic, local facilities for young people and targeting local crime.
6. How do you propose to ensure that the local economy continues to thrive and support all local businesses?
The Town Council put on a number of different events to drive footfall into the town as a whole. I will also support local events from other local organisations, which I am very keen to be involved in.
7. How do you plan to work with other members of the council to achieve your goals?
I have a number of years of experience in working with many different business areas and individuals to ensure the best possible outcome and will confidently liaise with others to ensure this.
8. How would you balance the needs of different groups and priorities when making budget decisions?
I would like to ensure that any budget decisions are made with the people and community of Stone in mind. The money comes from our community and it should be fairly distributed as a result of that.
9. What is your position on local environmental issues, such as climate change, pollution, and waste management?
The environment is something that should be considered by all, as we can do so much to influence it on an individual basis. Tackling litter is a priority, as well as the reduction of waste and emissions.
10. How will you ensure that your role as a councillor receives the required time and effort to carry it out effectively?
I am highly organised with my time and will approach the role of councillor in the same way I tackle the workload in my day job.
Candidate-Specific Questions:
1. What five words would people who know you use to describe you?
Approachable, pragmatic, caring, tenacious and integrity.
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, but to make a difference for our community is one of the reasons I want to become 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?
All of the Independents running for the Town Council have their own opinions, even my husband! But our focus is truly Stone at the forefront of what we do. As such, that sets us apart from all other national political parties.
4. What’s your pledge to the people of Stone if you’re elected?
Our town is special, and it is made so by the people who live here. I want to be their voice at council meetings to make sure that all needs and points of view are listened to, and fairly considered.
