Problem exists when poll results in contrary actions

If the public inquiry into the local government amalgamation fiasco is to be of value its first matter for discussion is Gosford Council's poll of March 27, 2004.

The poll included five questions all relating to the future of the local government area with the most important being "'Do you support amalgamation with Wyong Shire Council?"

Voters selected "YES" with 18,846 votes, while the "NO" votes tallied 57,488.

This was a clear indication that residents opposed amalgamation.

Was the poll of any value?

Were there behind-the-scenes actions in 2004 to overrule the public?

The public inquiry is a futile end-of-pipe examination while the most important issues are neglected.

There is a genuine problem with government administration when the poll of March 2004 resulted in contrary actions being taken.

Another question that had similar history is: "What is the maximum number of storeys that you would support for buildings in Gosford CBD - seven or less; eight to 14; 15 to 21; 22 or more?

SOURCE:

Letter, 30 Aug 2021

Norm Harris, Umina