Ian White is a familiar figure around Pittwater, as a serving Councillor but also as a former school teacher and member of the Northern Beaches Rural Fire Service. He has provided 30 years of service to the community and is keen to see the Council remain strong and independent.  

 

On Council, Ian has been a voice for the local Pittwater Community and has a proven track record on preventing the destruction of natural habitat, finding solutions for more affordable housing, and providing a long term strategic plan for the future of Pittwater.

 

The former teacher at Newport Public School fought hard on Council for the improvement of roads, villages, waterways and the environment in general, while adhering to the principles of economic responsibility and community engagement.

 

For 25 years Ian has been an active member of the Northern Beaches Rural Fire Service and has served as senior deputy Captain of the Scotland Island Rural Fire Brigade. He is also a Community First Responder (CFR) (volunteer paramedic for the Ambulance Service) and belongs to several bush regeneration groups..

 

Ian has a proven track record for making considered, informed and pragmatic decisions and not giving in to the easy or popular way out when confronted with difficult decisions. He is clear-headed in any emergency and a calm, resourceful mentor when it comes to leading people in government.

 

Ian also understands that the State Government’s approach of “one-size-fits-all” is not beneficial or effective for local communities. He has always been a vocal advocate for the unique needs and requirements of the Pittwater community. Ian has a passion for working tirelessly with the local residents tackling the issues directly affecting them, and emphasises that council should be planning for change, rather than reacting to change.

 

Ian is acutely aware of the challenges that COVID-19 has presented to local businesses as they try to adapt and to local families as they juggle the emotional, educational and health needs of their families. As a former school teacher, he especially sympathises with the parents who are dealing with the demands and challenges of home learning.

 

Ian is particularly concerned about the State Government’s push to review the planning laws and guidelines for the entire Northern Beaches Area. He wants to ensure that the new Local Environmental Plan (LEP) and the Development Control Plan (DCP) maintain the low density, green and leafy nature of Pittwater.  He is passionate about ensuring that any new residential or commercial developments are in harmony with the surrounding environment.

 

He would like to see Council continue their strong role on environmental protection and would like to see them take a leadership position on housing affordability, climate change mitigation and support for the local arts sector.

 

Ian will ensure the Council protects, maintains and enhances the unique qualities of the Pittwater area for current and future generations