Citizens’ resolutions should include advancement of the city

Dear Editor,

Monday marks the beginning of a New Year. Many citizens would have made their New Year’s resolutions which encompassed growth, change and development in different aspects of their lives and those of their families.

It is always good that as we celebrate the end of another year, to reflect on our accomplishments and challenges; this can help us to chart a new course. However, in order for our resolutions to become a reality there must be commitment to a plan, stated goals, objectives, coupled with the virtues of sacrifice, determination, hard work and a will to actualize change. Otherwise, all our resolutions would only be wishful thinking.

At the Mayor & City Council we have resolved to improve service delivery capacity in all areas. This means that we must employ new work strategies, mechanisms and procedures to sustainably provide vital services at a higher level, to all local communities in the New Year.

The Council’s focus is to build stronger relationships with local neighbourhoods and other critical stakeholders through community projects that would cater to the diverse social, economic, cultural and environmental needs of those areas. This can only be achieved if we foster a deeper culture of co-operative governance. Hence, it is imperative that there be effective communication, meaningful dialogue and consistent interactions at every level. We are aware that the success of our plans and projects depends on the active participation of all citizens. The Council cannot build communities in isolation from its citizens.

The year 2017 was a difficult one for the Council, but it is important that we collectively confront the challenges that are ahead with cooperation, collective wisdom and strength.

We must move away from the notion which enunciates, that it is not my business; let the Council fix it. It is important that we understand that citizens are the real custodians of the city and the city managers are stewards entrusted with special responsibilities.

It is our hope that in 2018, all local communities would work with the Council to advance the interest of the city. Therefore, when citizens make their resolutions they should include the advancement of the city and its environs.

May the peace of God keep us all in 2018; we wish everyone a happy and healthy 2018.

Yours faithfully, Debra Lewis Public Relations Officer For Mayor & City Council