Spent Rates, Spent Conviction

James Trail had moved on before he faced the magistrates to answer the charges brought against him as a result of his behaviour when he was CEO of Augusta-Margaret River and Kalamunda . After Kalamunda dismissed him he created JT Professional Services and shifted from being directly involved in local government, as a CEO, to being a local government consultant.

Strange times in the Wild West

Not since we read of Richard Lewis having his car tampered with and Julien Grill and Brian Burke’s brother Terry killing people with their motor cars and avoiding any legal redress have events in government taken such a strange turn.

Trust

For years there have been news stories decrying the appalling acts of violence by the Taliban against health workers engaged in polio vaccination programmes. These attacks have resulted in an increase in polio cases, most notably in Pakistan.

CCC v Cowboys?

When public money is spent on investigations and reports by Commissioners, and the Corruption and Crime Commission investigating problems with local government activities do we get good value? Or will the cowboys always win?

His Sister?

'But Anne Lake could be his sister, for all we know?'

It was said more as a joke than a serious suggestion. But my sense of humour can get me into trouble, in this case a light hearted comment intended to do no more than offer a fresh perspective on what has been the talk around town actually sparked something of a flame.

The Hand of God

Those of us who older will remember Diego Maradona and his comment on the hand of God, which was really something of a joke; but maybe also contains a grain of wisdom for how we live. What Diego said was; 

'A little with the head of Maradona and a little with the hand of God'.

What Price Democracy?

Where is the difference between the 500 Club, that Mr Middleton manages for WA Liberals, and the Eightbyfive fund that benefited the NSW Liberals, or the fund that Joe Hockey is trying to explain away today?

Does Language Matter?

Does the size of our vocabulary, our capacity to parse, our ability to comprehend the many meanings that can be resolved from any given phrase in the English language matter?

Think Local

Sadly some mischievous troublemaker has directed my attention to a report tabled in State parliament. This report purports to shed some light on the Gourmet Escape Event.

AMR Inc?

Back in 2003 Michael Hale was announcing his success at getting permission for a resort at Cowaramup. At that time he was fronting a group called Augusta Enterprises.

The Great Gourmet Escape Scam

Was the AMRTimes joking last Friday?

They published what must surely be a spoof article about the Gourmet Escape and the difficulties surrounding it. Difficulty in obtaining financial information? Surely not?

Gift Horse Anyone?

There used to be an old saying, "Never look a gift horse in the mouth."

Which suggested that anything that was offered for free didn't need to be checked over too thoroughly. Just accept the gift and be grateful. Good advice? Not necessarily.

Anomalies in Workforce Data?

I have a couple of queries that relate to the data we are being given on the employees.

Process or Outcome?

Why might it be easier to gather mass support for an iconic stretch of coastline rather than a small location dedicated to agriculture and viticulture?

Storm in a Teacup – Part Two

I have been reading the agenda for tomorrow’s Council meeting and have a few things puzzling me – one of them concerns the consultant Anne Lake

Creating Communities

Creating communities what does that mean? It sounds so cosy, comfy, warm and snugly, but is it a wolf in sheep’s clothing?

Housing Need?

When does a particular location need more housing?
When the next generation are ready to launch into independent living?
When employers are expanding their businesses and need to bring more workers into the area?
How would you decide?
How does our shire decide? Or do they seek advice from local experts?

It would be good to know if Bob's been giving advice here.