BARBECUED sausages are just the start of what mayoral candidate Tom Tate plans to offer the Gold Coast.

During his campaign launch on the weekend Mr Tate said a grand vision was ironically not enough for a city desiring certainty and confidence.

"Gold Coasters want to know that they will have a job next week, next month and next year," he said.

"They want to know their family will be safe and the cost of living pressures we face will ease.

"So here's my promise to you; as mayor I will deliver to the Gold Coast certainty, confidence and a stronger economy."

He said from the council's $1billion budget he would cut $80million a year ensuring rates will always be lower on his watch.

"I'll bring that 'have a go' spirit back to our city, to ensure we create jobs locally, and that our businesses prosper.

"I will make it safer for every resident, and return our city to being truly the best place to live, work and visit.

"And here's where I start; our transport system is crucial to the success of this city now and beyond 2018, when all the world will be watching.

"My transport plan that I will announce at the end of January will make it quick and easy to get around the Gold Coast and deliver a truly integrated transport network.

"I will expand the bus network, particularly east-west connections, because I want everyone to be no more than a 10 minute walk to public transport.

"I will do this by doubling the number of kilometres covered by our public transport network by 2016.

"I will remove a number of T2 lanes to get traffic moving and lobby so that we can turn left on red with care to further reduce congestion.

"I will increase the number of bike ways across the city and we have to link the heavy and light rails all the way to Coolangatta airport."

Mr Tate said as a civil engineer and successful businessman he knew how to not only build but promote the city to attract investment.

"Financial analysis, figures and spreadsheets; it's what I do and this business acumen is exactly what this council and our city needs.

"I'm confident only my reforms will achieve long-term growth, lower rates and better services for all Gold Coasters.

"My campaign office is open at the old TAB building, next door to the Palm Beach Hotel.

"So come on in and visit us - from the New Year the office will be open every day."