Policies Over Politics: A Call for Responsible Local Governance
By Rajiv Chaudhri - Editor in Chief
The recent decision by The Hills Shire Council to spend $120,000 of public money on a political advocacy campaign (Fight for a Fairer Hills Future) is a disappointing example of misplaced priorities. In addition to this outlay, wastage of resources and time spent by the Council would result in total expenditure of a much higher amount. Rather than engaging directly and constructively with the New South Wales Government through existing dialogue mechanisms, the council chose to pursue what many see as a political stunt, funded by residents who expect their money to go towards tangible outcomes such as infrastructure upgrades, better amenities, and community development.
In an era of increasing cost-of-living pressures, residents deserve accountability and stewardship, not spin. Effective local governance requires collaboration, not confrontation; facts, not fear; and most importantly, policies over politics.
To me this seems like political campaign to use ratepayers’ money to attack the State Government. It is not an effective initiative to get outcomes for our residents. Unfortunately, it will be our residents who end up suffering.
By investing in open communication, professional advocacy within the established frameworks, and transparent community consultation, councils can deliver more value and strengthen trust. Ratepayers are not political pawns, they are citizens who deserve efficient services and a voice that is heard through proper, respectful engagement with state authorities.
The Hills community deserves better. It’s time for our local government and their leadership to return to the fundamentals of service, stewardship, and sensible spending.
