By Charlene Macaulay
There are so many things happening at 45 Princes Highway that, as the Two Ronnies used to say, they are too humorous to mention. They are, but let me give it a go. One councillor is appealing a court decision, two others are under investigation for possible conflict of interest, one is canvassing public opinion as to whether he should run for Parliament and another is bleating on about too many private schools in the area. The Bold and The Beautiful scriptwriters must be so jealous. It’s our very own daily soap opera.
Meanwhile, council is developing plans to become the epicentre of the waste to energy industry. Holy steaming piles of whatever! Our council is speaking rubbish. That is not unusual, but this might actually make some dollars and sense (sic). Wyndham might be the home of a $320 million facility, with our council talking to Geelong and other local government bodies about the possibilities. It is certainly worth investigating, but our council needs to remember it is not an entrepreneur. Previous councils have tried and failed for numerous reasons. I can’t see this council being any better at it.
Regarding the court appeal, when you plead guilty, you must expect to cop your right whack and move on. Many believe this councillor got off lightly.
What part of ‘no’ don’t you understand? used to be an amusing T-shirt slogan. It is now the question directed at the two councillors ignoring their peers and going overseas to be part of a judging panel. Suffice to say, it is not a good look.
Should a councillor run for state Parliament? Yes, but only if it comes at no cost to the ratepayers. For future reference though, if you make a commitment to people, see it through to the end before eyeing off other opportunities.
Too many non-government schools are being built in Wyndham according to one councillor. Of course there are, and they are building them so the classrooms are empty and the grounds bare. Read earlier in this column where I talk about council not being entrepreneurs. The defence rests.
