A new guy only there for 6 months probably would like to meet the neighbours. Go and have a chat. Keep to the facts of what needs doing and why. Avoid anything that might sound bitchy but why not mention that some things have been on the agenda for quite a while without any apparent action?
As an EC member it is a common frustration that we have members who will gossip and complain to anyone except the EC. I have lost count of the number of times we could have had a simple fix for a concern if only people would tell us. On the other hand, we do have a few I would rather hear less from!
The new guy might have lots of previous strata experience and be able to get things done, or he might be keen but naive, need an ally and some hand-holding. Either way, people prepared to go on the EC need some nurturing!
Good Luck.