Wellington Shire Northern Ward candidate Christos Iliopoulos has proposed the establishment of a forum aimed at “fostering community dialogue and enhancing democratic participation”.
Mr Iliopoulos said there needed to be a platform which promoted the exchange of ideas among shire’s residents.
“If it is our aim to make Wellington Shire the most desirable place to live, we must harness the best ideas from a wide range of knowledgeable people within the shire,” he said.
“Currently, there is no forum at which such ideas and initiatives may be discussed. Shire council meetings cannot accommodate such debates.”
Mr Iliopoulos pointed out while residents could reach out to their parliamentarians or write letters to the local newspaper, these actions did not provide the robust discussion necessary to facilitate real change.
“A proper democracy will provide an avenue for the expression of the needs and wants of the constituents,” he said.
“Currently, all we really have is a vote. That’s not enough.”
If elected to council, Mr Iliopoulos said he would advocate for the Wellington Shire forum, a monthly meeting chaired by the mayor or another councillor, which would welcome all residents and relevant political representatives. He said the initiative aimed to create a space for open discussion, allowing community members to present their ideas and participate in meaningful debates that could lead to actionable outcomes.
“The forum will be open to all, providing an essential platform where we can collaboratively create solutions and ensure our collective voice is heard,” Mr Iliopoulos said.
