BY MAYOR JOS MITCHELL
Transparency is the cornerstone to building trust and accountability.
I believe it is important for Redland residents to see and understand how Council decisions are made, how our rate money is being spent and how resources are managed.
Openness builds confidence that Council acts in the community’s best interests.
In doing that, we can become invested in the process and have questions answered.
Like many local government bodies, Redland City Council faces a range of financial pressures from a large project pipeline and a legacy of ageing infrastructure, all while operational costs continue to rise.
These challenges must be managed, and residents deserve clear information on what Council is doing and how it spends its funding, including rates.
While some may question the cost of transparency, it is an investment in good governance.
Targeted audits and reviews, which are standard practice in government and the private sector, help prevent waste, ensure resources are used well and often recommend improvements.
Importantly, they also demonstrate all the above to the community.
Since being elected, I’ve worked to deliver on my promise of openness and efficiency in government.
I initiated an external review of services and delivery models to ensure we do the right things for our community, in the right way and with the right resources.
After lengthy debate that motion was carried by Council.
That comprehensive review has now commenced.
I also recently called for a detailed audit of the multi-sports precinct at Heinemann Road, a project which has been in play for eight years.
By majority vote of councillors that motion was not supported by Council.
Claims have been made that a review of the same nature had already been undertaken and tabled in early 2024.
The existing audit is confidential.
I read it and did not believe it covered the information and scope I was seeking in my motion.
That is why I put the motion forward for a public facing audit.
Looking ahead, I still want to see increased transparency around Council’s activities, so residents and ratepayers have a clear understanding of current and future financial commitments.
This includes the Council and community commitment to the Birkdale Whitewater Facility and the Birkdale Community Precinct.
Transparency and efficiency were foundations of my campaign, and they remain a guiding principle.
By advocating for open processes and clear information, we can build a stronger, more accountable Council.
An organisation that well and truly continues to serve the Redland City community.
