Introduction: I moved to Bathurst in 1986. Since 2000 to 2012 I have worked frequently overseas.
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To bring my experience to the decision making process of Council. This includes:
- A wealth of experience and the ability to negotiate positive outcomes in the community interest.
- A broad base of knowledge across diverse subjects including good governance and community based solutions.
- Ability to cope with new knowledge and use this to solve problems.
- An open and unprejudiced approach without political bias.
Popularly-elected mayor: Yes, if pressed for it, but it is not my priority and any referendum should be subject to minimum cost. I suggest that both sides fund their own cause.
Water sale: I would want a lot more facts before I voted either way. I fear that many decisions have been made in the absence of facts and due to political bias.
Roundabout: Yes. I would like to see what the implications of this expenditure will have on other projects and prioritise the remaining funds accordingly.
Australia Day: Yes.
TAFE building: I have not been inside the building so I wrote in the absence of enough knowledge. If possible I would like to see Business Offices on the ground Floor and apartments above.
Rates cap: I want to see Council lift its vision above municipal affairs-which are of course essential-and become engaged in civic leadership like affordable housing and reduction in power costs. This requires collaboration and engagement with appropriate bodies. By these means I would hope to avoid the need for additional charges.
Christmas decorations: Yes but let’s be minimalist in approach.
CCTV: I would prefer a joint funding from users and the Council but I support the concept.
Demolition by neglect: A difficult one. Having done a Thesis on the Management of Heritage and seen the “intended” demise of heritage properties without penalty I have no quick fix. The inspectorial effort could be expensive and easily thwarted. It is difficult to specify the intention of the owner. Could the owner afford to maintain? Initially the old homes should be identified. If they are considered heritage then at least we have a target group. Assessment of condition could then be done and periodic inspections made. There should be some benefit for the owner in the mix or else, without cooperation, any remedial scheme is likely to fail.
Attendance: One. I have chaired and been a member of a significant number of Councils, Committees and Groups at International, National and State levels. I am conversant with relevant protocols. I was unimpressed with the one Council meeting I attended. I believe there is an opportunity to approach documentation of the Agenda and supporting documents in a modern approach. Having been a senior bureaucrat for a few decades I recognised the approach of “keep them buried in paper and they will think they run the business”-an age old custom when dealing with Ministers under the Westminster system.
