Letters to the Editor - Nov 2017

Letters to the Editor - Nov 2017

Report card grossly unfair

I’m often motivated to write to newspapers but seldom carry the motivation through to a letter.

I did however feel that the report card in Issue 36 (October 2017) lacked both depth and accuracy and, as such, did a disservice to some very hard-working councillors while giving a free pass to some others who do little or nothing with their constituents.  The article is without a by-line so I don’t know who reached the conclusions published.

The report on Jackie Watts was, I felt, grossly unfair.  To say that she is often in the “naughty corner” sidelines the fact that she’s the chair of the Knowledge City portfolio where she has worked tirelessly to build Melbourne’s reputation as Australia’s education hub.

I see this from my professional side and am proud of what she does for our city.  She is also deputy chair of the People City portfolio.  I really feel that a “report card” which makes no reference to these responsibilities and actions is so defective that it should be corrected in a future edition of CBD News.

I’d add, in Jackie’s case, that she is also tireless in her interaction with community groups, including Residents 3000, and that this should have been noted.  If she really is in a “naughty corner” it could only be that she is probably the most active independent voice for these groups in the council.  That merits our appreciation, not the sidelining implicit in the article.

Thanks my friend.  In all other respects I really like the paper and think it does a great job.

Christopher Lamb

Begging to differ

I beg to differ with the sentiments expressed in the article “Even more government” (CBD News, October 2017).

The Metropolitan Partnerships is not “government” but an initiative designed to enhance the engagement of community and business with local councils and the state government.

As a member of the Inner Metro Partnerships I hold out hope that the partnership will contribute to a sustainable metropolitan Melbourne for all through joined up government and engaged community.

Other members of the Inner Metro Partnerships bring a depth of community and business experience that along with the yearly assembly will provide another avenue of engagement for local councils and the state government to consider in their decision-making.

The Inner Metro Partnership has identified “managing growth” as a key objective with the priorities of inclusiveness, shared economic well-being and environmental sustainability. It’s worth a go!

Martin Brennan

Since Labor has been in power …

Since Labor has been in power …

March 20th, 2024 - Evan Mulholland
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