Local Government Boundaries - 2007

LETTER TO THE EDITOR - 14 May 2007

Dear Editor

Probably most people concede that a review of Queensland's Local Government boundaries is long overdue and that sensible changes could bring about significant savings and benefits for ratepayers. However, when the same protagonists are constantly interviewed or reported promoting one course or another, the public can be forgiven for being sceptical.

It seems to me that most of the alleged reasons for change or otherwise are based on self-interest and little consideration is being given to presenting factual information on which people can base their judgements or form an opinion.

The anecdotal evidence from interstate suggests that forced amalgamation of cities and shires rarely achieves the financial savings trumpeted before the event. Instead we see a new level of empire building as shire mayors and CEO's are replaced by city-based mayors and CEO's on substantially inflated packages, surrounded by an even larger assortment of consultants and other advisors.

Perhaps this explains why individuals who think they have the most to gain from the present review are doing most of the talking?

Hopefully, councillors and other commentators can begin to focus more on what is actually going to work best for ratepayers and the community and think less of their own personal agendas.