A by-election will take place in Ottershaw ward on Thursday 12th December following the sad death of Independent Councillor Malcolm Cressey at the end of September.
Runnymede Conservatives have selected Mike Kusneraitis, himself a former Councillor within the Borough for 16 years, to be our candidate and if elected, to continue Malcolm's good work, particularly in defending the ward from overdevelopment.
Mike said: "I got on well with Malcolm and know how well regarded he was across the Council Chamber and within his community. He was dedicated to his residents and prepared to work across the political divide to get things done. I am seeking residents support to continue that tradition of standing up for the interests of Ottershaw at the Council, particularly around development.
"I was previously a Runnymede Councillor for a decade and a half so I know how to get things done and will be able to hit the ground running from day one if elected."
Mike is married with grown up children and has enjoyed a varied career including running his own chauffeur business. These days he is am semi-retired with lots of time to devote to the role of Councillor.
The key issues in Mike's campaign are:
1) Ensuring Ottershaw ward does not bear the brunt of Labour’s much-increased housing targets and protecting the character of Ottershaw village and West Addlestone.
2) Effectively tackling antisocial behaviour and petty crime by securing CCTV particularly around the Brox Road shops.
3) Working with residents and Surrey County Council colleagues to mitigate extra traffic in the village caused by new developments.
4) Holding Runnymede's Labour-controlled Council to account. They have imposed a nonsensical four Co-Leaders model and given themselves a 120% pay rise whilst increasing fees and charges on residents.
Mike added: "My pledge to residents is to put the community first and to be plain speaking and do my best for the ward. The Government is expecting Runnymede to provide 14% more homes which means more building in Ottershaw impacting on the local area amenities, traffic and green spaces. We will need an experienced voice to stand up for our area, and that is what I can offer."
