Poll position
As Tate eyes a fourth term, remember that the key to a healthy race lies with his rivals.
The Mayor makes a valid point about experience when it comes to leading a city like the Gold Coast. Yes, having runs on the board counts for plenty when voters consider who our next mayor should be.
The scope and complexity of the job is not one that should be underestimated and having someone who understands the ins and outs of local government and the issues facing the Coast over the coming decades comes with plenty of merit.
But in saying that, Tom Tate was once a first-term mayor too.
And his victory and time getting up to speed with the role also coincided with some critical decisions for our city.
The most important factor for Gold Coast voters on election day next month is that they have a choice.
And regardless of their political experience, marketing strategist Danielle Dunsmore, businesswoman Virginia Freebody and former Gold Coast Show boss Lavinia Rampino have given ratepayers that choice by deciding to step up to the plate for the mayoral race.
The Bulletin addressed this issue recently in relation to the southern Gold Coast division vacated by Daphne McDonald and the fact a couple of strong candidates had come forward to contest the position.
A contest of ideas is crucial to ensure that a poll gives voters the best opportunity to assess not only the incumbent councillor but to find out if there is someone else out there that they feel can handle the position better.
And the role of mayor is no different.
There is also a lot to be said for healthy competition and the fact that elected officials skating through unopposed does not make them as sharp.
While Mr Tate may have fired off his “training wheels” barb at the women lining up to run against him, there would be little doubt that he welcomes the healthy competition as he seeks a fourth term in the city’s top job.
And ultimately the voters will welcome it as well as they get a range of different ideas and views for the future of our city from prospective leaders ahead of the poll. With that said, bring on the battle for 2024.
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