Marisa Bell

Councillor - Southern Vales ward

PO Box 678
Clarendon SA 5157

Marisa Bell

 

What made you want to become an elected member and what do you bring to the role?

I’ve advocated and represented the broader community from the frontline as a health professional for 35 years and had desire to also serve the community in a different space. I want to make a difference to people’s lives and play a part in initiatives to improve quality of life for all in our community. I’m committed and passionate about protecting, promoting, and progressing public health. I care equally about our environment, and the sustainability of our agricultural and tourism industry. I’d like to see increased education and employment options and more local opportunities for our young people.

What are your key priorities and things you want to achieve as a councillor?

Advocacy and representation of our community, ensuring their voices and concerns are heard on Council. To work collaboratively with elected members, the mayor and council staff in problem solving and communicating the needs of the community to the state and federal government. I’m passionate about the progressing of public health policy, education, and the promotion of preventative public health measures to reduce the burden on the community and our health system.

Tell us a bit about yourself, your connection to the region, and your passions outside of work.

I’m a local, having lived in Kangarilla for 26 years. I’ve been an active volunteer, a long-term member of Trees for Life, and have grown many thousands of trees for the Fleurieu and Adelaide Hills. I’m a member of Landcare and environment groups. I’m a former Kangarilla CFS volunteer firefighter/cadet educator, and former ambulance volunteer. I’m married, am a long-term stepmum, and have a delightful grandchild. I have cultural and linguistically diverse roots, I’m proudly bilingual and love sharing family stories, Italian recipes, growing and preserving food. I also enjoy playing my guitar, gardening, bush walking and bird watching.

What do you want to hear about from local residents?

I’d like to hear how I can improve and make a difference to their lives and the environment they live in. I want to hear about the issues they care about, what they value most, or what matters to them most. I’d like to hear how I can be a vehicle to address inequality, promote fairness and safety, empower, provide hope, and build resilience in our community. I’d like for them to communicate, engage, and participate more in the decision-making processes available through council.