In 1985 Robin Gray’s Liberal Government forced amalgamation upon St.Leonards, Launceston and Lilydale Councils.
The age of 12 elected Aldermen were under the age of 65 and gave their time voluntary without any monetary gain.
The last 15 years have seen yearly allowances increase to $30,000 plus perks.
This has attracted many aged people to stand for office and they are receiving super/pension and council allowance, ie triple dipping.
This trend is obvious in most 29 councils.
Now we have retired politicians getting in the act, with former Liberal MHA Tony Benneworth and former Labor Minister Jim Cox getting in the queue.
Local government has been a great training ground for aspiring young aldermen, many making State Parliament.
I urge all voters to give our young candidates a vote in these coming elections.
I challenge all candidates to state their age before polling day.
