I'M BACK!
It's been a while since I have done anything on blogger. There have been some really difficult times over the past couple of years in local government that resulted in allegations about my integrity that did not sit well so I became very quiet on this forum.
Things have been busy in Council with rates and budget discussions having just been conducted. I actually voted against the rates resolution and ultimately the budget. In a 20+ year history on council it is the first time I've ever done that.
My reasons were very simple. Whilst council has all the plans and strategies in place to meet the requirements of the Performance Improvement Directions and the Local Government Act to establish a sustainable future, the future this year is looking decidedly bleek for many. Did we have to resolutely follow the plans? The short answer is no. As a council we should have adjusted the budget and shown some compassion for our community especially after the changes to rates last year. I did not agree with the change to AAV last year so I stood firm this year with the downturn in economy.
There has been a lot said about the inequity of the Federal Assistance Grants for GSBC. It is a fight we've been having as a council for many years. The methodology used to determine the grants needs a serious overall. It is unfortunately not as simple as the Minister clicking his fingers and giving GSBC another $1million in untied grants that may ease the pressure on rates.
Shortly there will be a new election and a new council. Have you considered standing? It really is quite rewarding despite the frustrations and abuse that goes on from time to time. In a small rural council like GSBC it is very poorly paid in terms of an allowance for the hours put in and even more so for younger people. If we reverted to meeting after 5 it may encourage younger people as it would not be necessary to take time off work.
Remember the next election is compulsory voting!
Till next time,
Cheryl
