By Andrew Cantwell
One of the recommendations from the Casey monitor before the council was dismissed in late February addressed the search for new civic leaders to refresh to ranks when elections are held in 2024.
The issue was raised at a public Casey Council meeting under interim administrator Noelene Duff in early April, with the advice that under the Covid-19 restrictions not much could be done to pursue the recommendation at the present time.
While the Casey administration has had to put the matter on hold for the foreseeable future, there’s nothing stopping Casey’s various communities and community groups from identifying, encouraging and cultivating the community leaders of the future.
There’s a strong tradition across the state of councillors being recruited from the ranks of progress associations, service clubs, community groups and diverse communities; as well as from the ranks of industry and commerce; and political aspirants.
Community groups provide an ideal training ground for engagement with issues, public debate, meeting procedure, finances, policy development and community improvement.
As extra scrutiny will be given to the incoming Casey councillors in 2024, it’s also essential that potential leaders have a sound moral compass and sense of ‘service above self’.
With more than four years to go until the next popular election in Casey, there’s more than enough time to keep an eye out for potential candidates.
The danger will be in doing nothing for four years and – instead of getting the calibre of councillor the thriving city deserves – Casey getting more of the same.
