Alan Dray
I Understand You… Let Me Represent You.
Let me Represent You
REPRESENTATION : My platform for governance is simply put; representation, common sense, common decency, fiscal responsibility, vision and compassion when ever possible. Not all decisions will be totally set in concrete but all decisions should fulfil most of the above criteria, especially the criterion of representation.
COMPASSION: I wonder if we can’t compare good governance to good parenting. We all want the hugs and kisses but should we get them by handing out candy which we know is to the detriment of our child’s health. Similarly a good councillor should not seek the kudos of a spoilt minority with pandering decisions which wreck the majorities (and the minorities) future.
I enjoy my hugs and kisses like everybody else but I believe it is wrong to buy affection.
ISSUES: Having made the above policy statements, I could probably declare a solid platform on some issues as there are many which do fit all the criteria.
There will be times when the constituent will have all of the criteria fulfilled but there will also be times when the dictates of good governance will force the omission of one or more of these ideals from the decision making tree.
PRECEDENT: I don’t believe that precedent is the overall panacea for correct decision making. Though oftentimes it is a good guide there will almost certainly be situations where a decision based on precedent will not provide the most workable solution. A good councillor should have the flexibility of judgment to legislate on merit, not mindset.
COMPENSATION: If elected, which ever way my council vote goes, there is one thing I can promise you…it will be for the good of the greater community with the disadvantaged, fully compensated.
I don’t believe that the residents of a home with winter morning sun one year should freeze at their breakfast table in the next year because of the greed of a high-rise developer.
PROGRESS and VISION: Equally I don’t believe that the lone householder should stall progress if a well canvassed, educated and compassionate majority demand it. In this case the developer group may have their way but only with the proviso that the compensation deal they offer to the lone householder, or community in general is just too good to refuse.
WHEN I CANNOT REPRESENT: There will be times when I cannot truly represent you if my hand is forced by outside circumstance eg State or Federal government legislation.
I will never be a puppet for one eyed pressure groups or a conduit for stupidity.
TO SUM UP: I must be a practical and fair minded councillor, first and foremost…….for you, your parents, your children and your grandchildren, as good governance should favour no particular group.
