New name won’t cut it

I AGREE with Damien Keyes when he states in the TB 18/ 07/ 15 that “the team that could present as the most united and independent from party politics had the best chance of winning the election”.

In addition to Mr Keyes’ insight, I would also add that as a mayor you need to lead with distinction, integrity and courage. Candidates need to have a love for Townsville, with a desire to see our great city flourish. They must also have the ability to understand and tolerate opposing comments.

In the same article, councillor Tony Parsons said, “We’ve had a number of discussions with a number of people as to standing as a mayoral candidate. We’ve got someone close to committing.” This strikes me as meaning that Townsville First are still rummaging around looking for someone to put their reputation on the line and lead them.

In the TB 21/ 07/ 15, it states that “Ms Arlett has been courted to lead a team featuring a number of Townsville First councillors with a rebranded name.” Townsville First knows that their current name is toxic within the community and if they ran under the same name they would rapidly become a redundant force.

I am not convinced that to rebrand their name will make them solid contenders in the upcoming contest for city hall. Many promises were made by the Hill team and Townsville First team and almost four years later nothing has been delivered, e. g. hard rubbish collections, rates rebates, additional street lighting et cetera, et cetera.

Elected civic leaders must be transparent. They must demonstrate how their actions will best benefit everyone rather than the chosen few i. e. themselves. Add the ability to negotiate with all stakeholders diplomatically, coupled with statesman/ woman- like behaviour, I believe we will have the winning formula.

In recent weeks a number of senior people have related that they want to see a council like the one led by Angus Smith ( 1952- 67). They hold up Smith’s council as a shining example of how a diverse council can work amicably together in the best interests of Townsville. No matter how much you rebrand, unless the attitude is realigned and the toys are no longer thrown from the cot nothing will change. Cohesiveness and commitment to Townsville remain the key to Townsville’s future.

BRENDAN PORTER,

Belgian Gardens.

VOTER PITCH: Hard rubbish collection was promised but four years later hasn’t been delivered, a reader says.