New faces and new ideas are needed to ensure Launceston can meet the financial and social challenges of the 21st Century, according to Launceston City Council Alderman candidate, Tom Ellison.
Whilst praising the contribution of current Aldermen for their lengthy service to the community, the financial analyst and company director said the time had come for some to step aside to ensure the city’s progress doesn’t stall or go into reverse.
“Launceston faces some significant challenges in the years ahead,’’ Mr Ellison said.
“Although two decades of economic growth have helped the city maintain its position as the best regional city in Australia, many recent planning decisions show that Launceston’s current elected representatives are poorly equipped to deal with the complexities of a modern economy.’’
Mr Ellison said Launceston’s built heritage, one of its most valuable assets, was at risk from insensitive and uninformed decision making by Council.
“People come to Launceston to enjoy our history, our natural assets and our lifestyle,’’ he said. “The last thing they expect is to see a conglomeration of concrete-slab chain stores, which they can see at home.
“What we need is a coherent strategy to maximise Launceston’s reputation as a tourism destination, rather than flimsy attempts to prop up unsustainable and job-shedding industries.’’
Mr Ellison said Launceston could further develop its national reputation as an artistic and cultural hub.
“We already possess arguably the best regional museum and art gallery in the nation, together with first-class sporting facilities,’’ he said.
“Why not build on those strengths, and further develop the region as the best place to live, work and invest in the nation?’’
Mr Ellison confirmed that he was not, and never had been a member of a political party.
“I believe the community is best served by those having a genuine interest in progress, rather than people using local government as a stepping stone to a position in State or Federal Parliament,’’ he said.
Tom Ellison
