Xena was first elected in May 2003 and has focused on the local economy and environment. She is an NHS public health practitioner with a keen interest in services for children and their families. As a former chair of the Council scrutiny board, she has led the way in debating and developing future policy.
Since May 2011 Xena has been a Council Cabinet member and Portfolio Holder for a Prosperous and Sustainable Poole, covering economic development, the environment, and culture and learning:
- Environmental areas: waste and recycling; consumer protection, lost/stray dogs, beaches and flood defences; parks and open spaces.
- Local economy: economic development, business development, tourism and town centre management.
- Culture and learning: library services, adult learning and community development.
She is passionate about protecting and enhancing Poole’s natural environment of beaches and open spaces and works closely with environmental partners on protecting and accessing local wildlife. She was instrumental in helping to put a stop to flat development in inappropriate roads.
Xena also works on various local forums and working parties and represents the Council on numerous bodies covering coastal areas, Dorset and Wessex.
Xena led the initiative to secure Poole’s success in hosting European Maritime Day 2017. This event will boost local business and attract visitors to Poole.
Xena pledges to:
- Progress plans and action for European Maritime Day and Poole Maritime Festival
- Continue to push to keep our neighbourhoods clean, free from litter and dog fouling, and well maintained.
- Continue to ensure a sensible and pragmatic approach is taken to planning and development