I would like to extend my heartfelt thanks to The Bugle for organising the recent information session on the debate over the election of our mayor in Kiama. This Q&A session was an invaluable opportunity for residents to engage with the critical question of whether our mayor should be elected by the council or directly by the community.

Panel member 1 opened the Q&A session with gratitude, emphasising the importance of public participation. Panel member 2 highlighted the necessity of community education and encouraged us to consider the practices of other councils. The call for more information clearly resonated with the audience, eager to understand the implications of each option.

An audience member asked a question that was clearly front of mind for many people regarding the financial difference between the two systems which led to an important clarification: holding a referendum would cost about $24,000, with an additional $20,000 per election if a mayor is directly elected. This sparked further discussion on the value and efficiency of both models.

The session also covered the potential political influence and stability within the council. Some panel members warned of the risks of political parties dominating mayoral elections, while others pointed out that internal council politics could disrupt governance if the mayor is elected by councillors.

Leadership effectiveness was another key concern. Another panel member highlighted the challenges of removing an ineffective directly elected mayor, which could involve a lengthy and costly process. However, supporters of direct elections argued that a mayor chosen by the people would be more accountable and focused on community priorities.

Importantly, the session underscored the dangers of assuming that the questions and comments from the floor represent the overall feeling in the room. While the Q&A provided valuable insights, it’s crucial to remember that the vocal few may not capture the diverse opinions of our entire community. Making assumptions based on these voices can lead to misinterpretations and overlook the silent majority's perspectives.

Overall, the importance of having a mayor who can unite the council and effectively address community needs was a recurring theme. The debate revealed that both systems have their pros and cons, and the decision ultimately rests with the informed and engaged citizens of Kiama.

Thank you, The Bugle, for facilitating this essential conversation. As our community continues to weigh the options, it’s clear that this debate is about more than just the title of mayor. It’s about ensuring that our leadership reflects the values, needs, and aspirations of Kiama’s residents.

Yours with gratitude

Engaged Kiama Citizen