The Glen Eira Clowncil administration has once again revealed its true colours. Police have been called in to remove a bunch of kids, women, aged residents, and young men, from the Lord St. Reserve - ie public land! These protestors were there simply because:
1. clowncil contractors had moved in (unannounced) early one morning and started to demolish a fence that was regarded by residents and sporting clubs as a safety fence to stop balls entering a busy road alongside.
2. residents were outrated at the lack of warning, the lack of discussion, and the lack of consultation.
All of the above are pointers to what is wrong with this clowncil. It is one that operates on the simple principle of bullying and 'might is right'.
Where have the principles of 'governing' for the community gone? What has happened to the idea of locals being in the best position to determine what is good for their locality? What is wrong with halting such works and sitting down and discussing the problem in a civilised and respectful manner? But I guess this is all too much for clowncil and its paid henchmen!
Wednesday, May 27, 2009
Thursday, May 7, 2009
Sound familiar??
From the just released ombudsman's report into Brimbank and ask: how different is this clowncil on this point at least?
In spite of their view that a mayor should have certain characteristics,
several councillors referred to the custom in Brimbank of councillors
taking turns to be mayor and noted that the mayoralty was something
to be shared. Dr A. Theophanous regarded the taking of turns as
reflecting the democratic principle. Cr Suleyman was described as
‘greedy’ for wanting to stand a fourth time for mayor before others had
had their turn.
913. It is clear that, at Brimbank, the mayor was elected because councillors
perceived it to be that person’s turn; and also that the mayoralty
may be used as a reward for supporting a certain faction. Ms Duncan
commented to my officers that ‘Brimbank is famous for what happens
on election night for a mayor’, with factions settled at the last minute
when mayoralty deals are made. Councillors also spoke about
Brimbank’s mayoral elections being the subject of comment in other
cities.
914. There was no evidence that a councillor was, between 2005 and 2008,
elected as mayor because of any relevant strength or ability, but rather
because of a deal done between councillors, based on whose turn it was.
In spite of their view that a mayor should have certain characteristics,
several councillors referred to the custom in Brimbank of councillors
taking turns to be mayor and noted that the mayoralty was something
to be shared. Dr A. Theophanous regarded the taking of turns as
reflecting the democratic principle. Cr Suleyman was described as
‘greedy’ for wanting to stand a fourth time for mayor before others had
had their turn.
913. It is clear that, at Brimbank, the mayor was elected because councillors
perceived it to be that person’s turn; and also that the mayoralty
may be used as a reward for supporting a certain faction. Ms Duncan
commented to my officers that ‘Brimbank is famous for what happens
on election night for a mayor’, with factions settled at the last minute
when mayoralty deals are made. Councillors also spoke about
Brimbank’s mayoral elections being the subject of comment in other
cities.
914. There was no evidence that a councillor was, between 2005 and 2008,
elected as mayor because of any relevant strength or ability, but rather
because of a deal done between councillors, based on whose turn it was.
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