This clowncil operates on the assumption that silence on the part of residents is basically 'consent' as to their policies and their operations. This could not be further from the truth! Admittedly, many people are apathetic about local government; either they think they're all useless, or simply don't care until something impacts directly on them - for example: a development next door; crowded street parking; threatening letters to chop down trees or clean up a garden, etc. But, this silence does not in any way equate with 'approval'.
I have been a close clowncil watcher for the past 7 years. During this time I have talked with literally hundreds of people. Almost without exception there is a perception out there that people do not want to get involved in council issues because they FEAR for their future; they are concerned about repercussions. The comment I receive is - 'Oh I don't want any trouble with council'. This type of response suggests several things:
1. People feel intimidated
2. People see clowncil as vindictive
3. People aren't prepared to put their heads on the chopping block in openly criticising what they feel is incorrect and/or unfair.
There is never smoke without fire! If people feel this way, then there must be a reason. What is it about this clowncil, that should give people this impression? The answer's not hard to find. All one has to do is read the tone of numerous letters that are sent out to residents, and the actual 'bully boy' tactics that have become the modus operandi of an administration that will never admit fault and will never accord residents the respect they deserve. In a so called democratic society it is unconscionable that residents should feel that they cannot become involved in local politics because they are afraid of potential repercussions for themselves. There is no one else to blame for such a perception except an administration that has succeeded in instilling a corporate mentality into all its functions and officers that is not only 'undemocratic', but reprehensible.
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But is the "fear" real and based on anything that has actually occurred after a stoush with Council Officers? For three traders the answer is yes!
My experience of one trader's story was that if you "bring yourself into the spotlight", visits from the Local Enforcement Officers will increase and their tenaciousness in attending to their duties is "run by the book and to the letter of the law" which in reality is simply too time consuming to apply while running a business. How far the promotional board from the wall of the shop? Where the authority from Council to operate the business is displayed? ....I could site other points but don't want to identify the type of business I am referring to.
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