In each edition we feature the views of a Local Government Association President. The following is from Mayor Mike Gaffney, President of the Local Government Association of Tasmania (LGAT).
At LGAT’s November General Meeting, it was a pleasure to launch a revised edition of the Councillor Resource Kit. Every elected member has now received the kit and feedback from Councillors, both experienced and newly elected, has been very positive. A copy of the document can be downloaded from LGAT’s website at www.lgat.tas.gov.au
Tasmania’s recent Local Government election results were announced early in November. We use a voluntary postal voting system, with successful candidates committing to a four year term. Elections are held every two years and the ‘half-in, half-out’ format is well received by the community. Mayors and Deputy Mayors are popularly elected every two years. It was a positive sign that 307 people nominated for the 149 vacant positions on the 29 Councils. This statistic reinforces a healthy interest in our sphere of government and the willingness of community members to be prepared to take on local leadership positions. Seven new Mayors were successful and it was obvious that the pulp mill issue in Tasmania has impacted on the Local Government elections.
All communities can derive benefits from the injection of new ideas, energy and differing points of view. It is also important for all elected members to understand that there are a myriad of everyday issues, which will continue to require consideration, investigation and attention. One of the advantages of Local Government in Tasmania is the capacity for all Councils (elected members and staff) to meet on a regular statewide basis. Four General Meetings are held each year plus our AGM. The November meeting was followed by an evening event and a Mayoral workshop the next day. LGAT coordinates this activity and also the weekend workshop for newly elected Councillors scheduled for March. The weekend is a good opportunity for those recently elected to Local Government to interact, network and be presented with some very down to earth and practical information. Topics to be discussed include asset management, the fundamentals of Council finance, meeting procedures, intergovernmental relations and policy process, planning, personalities and relationship building, codes of conduct, and the role of LGAT and the Australian Local Government Association. Another weekend event for all elected members will be organised for October 2008.
Local Government recognises and accepts that there is a desire for an effective working relationship between Government personalities in Tasmania. Council and LGAT staff have access and regular contact with politicians from both State and Federal levels. Indeed, the fact that the Premier has chosen Local Government as his portfolio and to be assisted by Minister of Community Development, Michelle O’Byrne, reinforces the importance of the relationship, that currently exists. While it is acknowledged that there are times when the road gets a bit bumpy – for instance, the issue of water and sewerage currently appears quite murky – at the end of the day all spheres of Government should be doing their utmost to ensure that the community is engaged, protected, informed and appreciated.
