New Taipei mayoral hopeful vows stronger flood control, tourism push

New Taipei City mayoral candidate Su Chiao-hui has promised to bolster the city's flood control infrastructure, addressing recent heavy rains that caused significant damage. Speaking at a town hall event organized by city councilor Dai Wei-shan, Su committed to building more detention ponds, increasing the frequency of dredging, and widening waterways if she wins the election.

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If elected mayor, I will actively promote the construction of detention ponds, strengthen dredging frequency, and improve channel width and length.

Su also reiterated her "New Crown Coast" tourism initiative, which aims to enhance the accessibility of seaside cycling routes. She envisions cycling becoming a more affordable and popular sport, thereby boosting local tourism and industry. This plan includes establishing rest stops and bike racks at regular intervals along the coast.

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The role of government is to protect the city's safety for the people. Mayors, department heads, civil servants, councilors, and village chiefs must all be vigilant to provide citizens with a safe and prosperous environment.

The event highlighted the importance of effective governance in ensuring public safety and well-being. Su referenced her recent visit to Tamsui District to assess flooding causes, noting how heavy rainfall and atmospheric pressure led to submerged roads and pavement damage. She stressed the need for all levels of government, from the mayor to local officials, to work diligently to provide a safe environment for residents.

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Dai Wei-shan is a versatile talent who can discuss space and also slaughter a pig.

Dai Wei-shan rallied support for Su, emphasizing the need for the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) to achieve a majority in the New Taipei City Council. She warned that without a majority, the party would face legislative gridlock, similar to challenges seen in the national legislature, hindering their ability to pass budgets and implement policies. The event also saw Su and other DPP officials canceling celebratory slogans due to ongoing flood damage in other counties, opting instead to offer words of encouragement.

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The DPP in the New Taipei City Council is closest to a majority with 32 seats. Without a majority, any proposal will be defeated. I believe Su Chiao-hui will be elected mayor, and therefore, the DPP must also have a majority in the New Taipei City Council, otherwise, like the national legislature, we will face difficulties such as the total budget being stuck and not passed.