Choose the right person for the job at the polls
As residents prepare to possibly head to the polls next month, the Plettenberg Bay Ratepayers Association has urged locals to think carefully when making their mark, as the local elections present an opportunity to turn around local government affairs in Bitou.
Chairperson Peter Gaylard said it is evident from the latest government reports and statistics, “and our lived experience”, that the quality of councillors and provision of services has fallen far short and has declined during every term so far.
“It is very important that voters do not vote blindly and unthinkingly for a political party or along racial lines,” he said.
As responsible voters we must consider what qualities and skills councillors must possess “to successfully do the critically important job to the required standard.”
Voters need to carefully evaluate the individual councillors and the track records of those standing for re-election. Councillors should have sufficient knowledge and experience of the municipal systems to be able to properly manage the budget, which runs into hundreds of millions.
“It is irrational to think that people without the requisite skills, experience, etc. … can actually do so successfully just because they belong to a political party and made themselves available,” he pointed out.
He also highlighted that it is the responsibility of councillors to ensure the correct people are chosen for the correct jobs and that they comply with the relevant legislation.
Councillors should have integrity; good working knowledge of municipal legislation and an understanding that they are there to serve the people of Bitou and not their political party, friends or themselves.
Read the full article in this week’s newspaper.