Accurate information and facts are important

I write in response to an advertisement from Edward James printed in the Peninsula News on Monday, August 19, regarding the placement of election signage for mayor Lawrie McKinna as a candidate in the Federal election.

Claims that mayor McKinna's signs were erected in "places that were illegal to use" are false and misleading.

This advertisement displayed an image of a Lawrie McKinna sign placed on fences in front of council land, not on council land itself, which is, in effect a permitted use.

In relation to claims that Council changed its policy to legitimise any actions in the lead-up to the election, Council is currently in the process of further updating and amending its policy so this is not in fact the case.

Mr James is again reminded that, at the time, an independent assessment was conducted for DA 11923/2001.

It was found that no anomaly existed within the assessment process and that the allegations Mr James made were not valid.

His advertisement alleges that Council is "bullish in its insistence in accommodating property developers who want control of our foreshore land at Gosford".

Development on the Gosford Waterfront is controlled by the State Government and is in accordance with the Masterplan 'My City, My Destiny' which is based on extensive community input and consultation.

The court case Mr James refers to as being in court on August 9 was brought to court by the defendant and not council as is alleged.

He claims that Gosford Council "misled the State Coroner during his inquiry into...Piles Creek, Somersby".

At the time of this incident, council publicly accepted the Coroner's recommendations and supported the independent review of its procedures.

I think it is important that people are provided with accurate information and facts in relation to the issues raised, so that biases and inaccuracies do not cloud people's judgement of these matters.

Email, 4 Sep 2013

Paul Anderson, Gosford