While the BVSRRA notes Cr Britten’s stated priorities of “focusing on business growth, preparing the council for the State Government’s ‘Fit for the Future’ local government reform plan and councillor education”, we can only hope that he remembers council’s primary purpose is to address the needs of residents/ratepayers and that it will be his efforts in that regard which will determine his success or otherwise in his new role.

Notwithstanding suggestions to the contrary, the BVSRRA does not accept the majority of residents/ratepayers believe council “does an exceptional job, despite constraints imposed by the State Government”.

Residents/ratepayers know it is not the fault of the State Government that our roads, footpaths, public toilets and other public amenities aren’t adequately maintained. 

And many can figure out for themselves the singular achievement of council over the past two years has been the construction of the looming monument to government bureaucracy and the abuse of the public purse in Zingel Place. 

In spite of the past failings of council, the BVSRRA believes Cr Britten has a wonderful opportunity to show genuine leadership in dealing with a number of significant issues currently confronting the community, including resolving the future of Merimbula Airport and the provision of public green space on the Mobil site in Merimbula.

Council, in response to Cr Britten’s leadership, should be rallying the community in opposition to the inclusion of a liquor license in the Woolworths supermarket development in Bermagui, rather than hiding its face. 

Council should be facilitating the efforts of the Eden community in saving the historical Hotel Australasia, rather than manufacturing excuses that “it is all too hard”.

And Cr Britten, with his many years of experience on council, is ideally placed to pursue real cultural change within council, with the introduction of a genuine culture of transparency and accountability.

And finally, more than two years after he and other councillors unanimously voted to address the absolute failure of BVSC to adequately and effectively engage and consult with the community, Cr Britten has a perfect opportunity to take this vital initiative by the scruff of the neck and actually do something tangible about the problem

So, Cr Britten, huge opportunities for your to show leadership, if you are up to the task?

The BVSRRA stands ready to help. You only have to ask.

John Richardson

Secretary, BVSRRA