Solutions banned

Council recently proposed a city wide ban of liquor in an attempt to hide an unsightly problem that has come from a small group in our community. A booze ban is already in place in central Wellington, Aro Valley and the Mt Victoria lookout.

Not surprisingly, the majority of people in our communities spoke out against such a heavy handed response. Who wants to be arrested for having  a glass of wine or beer at a picnic or BBQ, in one of the many parks of Wellington.

As a compromise, council voted to extend the current liquor ban area to Mt Cook and Newtown, but not the entire city. So much for addressing the real problems and trying to figure out why its happening in the first place.

A city wide ban is a complete cop out. But some in council still wanted it.

Real courage is addressing the issue and working with those communities that require a real solution. Sweeping it under the carpet, is just lazy and heavy handed. Get off your hands council, talk with all the parties, and find a real solution that works for everyone.

Surely someone in the community must know why its happening. They might even have a few ideas on how to reverse this unwanted drinking culture. Its amazing what can happen when you talk with people.

And isn’t it amazing to see that council are now beginning to be concerned about not listening to their communities. Well some on council. Others still think they know best. Amazing how an election focuses the hearing. But all a bit late, I would have thought, given councils record of not listening for the last three years. Especially for those who voted to ignore our voices (how they voted is at the bottom of the newspaper article, if you want to hold them accountable in the forthcoming election).

It also appears some on council have really lost the plot? Instead of a civil and informed debate we get intimidation and bullying. If our council are unable to set a good example, how can they judge the conduct of others?

Some voters have already aired their dismay over the councils pitiful performance, observing:

“Perhaps it’s time for the mayor (and some councilors) to seriously consider stepping down from council with a little dignity, because this is not only embarrassing, it’s also not conduct one expects from people supposed to be representing our city.”

And another, observing:

“The broom needs to be swept through the council chambers this election.”

I agree.

http://www.stuff.co.nz/dominion-post/local/3847716/Mayor-loses-on-city-wide-liquor-ban, http://wellington.scoop.co.nz/?p=25746