[Re The Islander 2013.06.20] headline article “FOI on ‘substandard’ airport case”, in last week’s paper.

Thinking Islanders might consider it unbelievable that a councillor would be forced to go to such lengths.

In the Islander of May 23rd, I publicly called upon the Mayor to assure us that the project brief for the proposed airport expansion, including it’s financial implications had been studied by Council. I am not aware of any response.

How can council promote this major project without being certain that it will not backfire on ratepayers?
How can council spruik about being open and transparent, and at the same time withhold vital information from it’s decision makers?
Where is the “strong, respectful debate“, Mayor Bates?

Indeed, how can the Editor denigrate the plucky efforts of Crs Liu and Walkom to be adequately informed in order to responsibly carry out their role?
All this in a year when we are being persuaded to vote ,“YES’, in a referendum to dignify “local government” in the Australian Constitution.

Bravo, Crs Liu and Walkom!

Rosalie Chirgwin
Cygnet River
24th June 2013