2017 City of Busselton council candidates | Valerie Kaigg

Ms Kaigg has been previously overlooked for council, but has not let that stop her from running again.

“I am prepared to be a voice for all and won’t give up without trying,” she said.

A Busselton resident of 27 years, Ms Kaigg initially moved here after the death of her husband.

“I was looking for a friendly and safe environment to raise my children, I felt Busselton would do this and also provide great opportunities for my children as they grew up.

“It was the best decision I have ever made, I love it here, I love the community.”

Ms Kaigg has a long history in the community, working for the city and being involved in several community groups, including the Red Cross, Busselton softball, Jetty Toastmasters, Busselton Repertory Club and much more. 

She is also a long time volunteer of Ironman and 70.3 Ironman.

She said she wants Busselton to keep its family friendly community.

“I want us to keep our open spaces, I want more cycle ways, more family friendly amenities.

Ms Kaigg said if elected, the main issues she would focus is spending cut backs, including trying to minimise rates. 

“Councillors need to bear in mind the not so affluent in our society when it comes to rate fixing time. There are many groups in the community who I believe are struggling to cope with these increases.”

Ms Kaigg said while she loves the new city building she disagrees to the magnitude in which it was built, she also has concerns with the airport.

As for the future of Busselton, Ms Kaigg said she would like to see planning to protect local heritage buildings. 

“I want us to keep our character and not loose it all to high rise buildings.” 

Going forward, Ms Kaigg said she would like council to be more open with the community throughout the whole decision making process, not just at the beginning and end of a project.