Thinking about Yass Valley Council prompted me in my last letter to contemplate the work of Council’s advisory committees.

Those of us who serve on a committee have now received a note advising that the periodic review will shortly be undertaken and our advice on that process is needed. Benefit to the community and relevance to the responsibilities of Council should be critical points for discussion. This is the domain of Council’s Corporate and Community Services division.

And in the past week a new report on water quality, its improvement and forward plans has appeared on Council’s website. There the news is good.

Overall the management of Council’s multiple operations lies with the General Manager who recently accepted the renewal of his contract – proper recognition of his ongoing commitment, professionalism and integrity. And the Council, its Councillors led by a gifted and fair-minded Mayor has also copped its share of malevolent detraction. This is unjustified.

And the Councillors? With some outstanding exceptions most Councillors were new, or relatively new to the job when elected in October 2012. Some formal training and intense on-the-job work have produced a good, industrious team. Internal dissension is inevitable when nine participants from the most varied backgrounds and of wide-ranging abilities and different values are held together by a fluctuating commitment to serve its regional community. By all accounts, dissension over trivial issues, some aired in the Tribune, has hampered the proper mission of Council. This is a disservice, albeit a lively sport for the curious observer.

Vigorous debate can sharpen decision-making if directed to the issue not the person. Strategies to facilitate sound decisions respectful of community aspirations and values are well developed. The solid work of Councillors and the enlightened leadership of Mayor Abbey The present Council is nearing the half-way mark of this term. Some good wins have been achieved. I think of environmentally sound management of land development, care for good building standards, protection of neighbourhood rights, security of water, upgrading of sewerage, commercial and rural development, constant work on our roads and their safety and a town and villages that make us proud to make this valley our home. My list could continue; others might add to it.

So why is Council subject to this outbreak of petulance? What inspires the cavilling derogation of a fine institution? We might speculate. The history is yet to be written. I trust that Councillors can feel encouraged and supported in their service to the people by the people.

Of even greater moment in justice is recognition of the quality, commitment and sheer hard work of all Council workers. It would be a sad day if Yass failed to respect and uphold the dignity and integrity of the workers.

I write as a concerned citizen and from the standpoint of a student of our social world. And, I’m priviledged to serve as a Yass Valley councillor.

​Ann Daniel's last letter in a series of three.