Democracy is alive and well in Warrnambool.
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This week we revealed 20 individuals were preparing to stand at the Warrnambool City Council election in October. With more than a month until formal nominations open, the number could swell even more.
The Melbourne Cup-size field is almost double the 12 candidates who contested the 2012 election. This is great news for voters who have looked on dis-sparingly for the past four years as factional battles undermined public confidence in the council.
At times, the council has appeared dysfunctional. The argument that robust debate and difference of opinions were an essential element of democracy were trotted out.
But the petty personal attacks and grandstanding have worn thin. The fact that 14 people think they can do better than the six incumbents running again, says as much.
Make no mistake, such a field is indicative of a mood for change.
Dissatisfaction with the council on the proposed harbour upgrade, a lack of progress on creating a showpiece sporting oval and recurring car parking concerns rightly rate high on the agenda of candidates.
All are complex issues but each has been around for years.
Sure, finances play a part, but progressive and driven councils find a way to make things happen, rather than be content with studies gathering dust for others to consider.
The perception is little gets done.
Incumbents will argue that is harsh. The existing council has laid the groundwork for Warrnambool’s biggest facelift in more than 50 years with the city centre renewal project – a $15 million initiative to revitalise Liebig and Koroit streets expected to get underway early next year.
Less popular but essential projects – opening up industrial and residential land, flood mitigation works in the city’s north and the introduction of CCTV cameras in the CBD – have been achieved.
How voters judge the incumbents will be intriguing. Six of the existing seven councillors are seeking re-election. Three have been at the council table for at least eight years.
With such a field of candidates, voters will be spoilt for choice. Do they opt for the devil they know or start afresh?
Preference deals will be critical in determining the result meaning voters have to be considered when making choices. Make your vote count because you have to live with the decision for four years at least.
