October 4, 2016
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- October 4, 2016 at 10:52 AM
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- Councillor Performance, Election 2016
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Glen Eira Debates
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October 4, 2016 at 11:11 AM
Good to see Andrew Bunn is still out there and kicking, and he’s right on the money, developers and real estate agents through their not so secret agents on council are running the Glen Eira show
October 4, 2016 at 1:53 PM
Was thinking about voting for them but this report does it for me.
I want someone better than Lipshutz, not worse. Even the Lip would have recognised real estate agent sponsorship as a No-No, Emy Monash yes, Real Estate No.
If these two are unable to grasp the conflicts of interest they have exposed themselves to then they are starting behind the 8 ball.
I’m voting for someone who hasn’t already backed themselves into a corner.
.
October 4, 2016 at 2:30 PM
Lipshutz stuck to the councils main roles. He didn’t waste time on gay marriage and other stuff that councils do not have any control. He never sought the headlines as Delahunty does. He can retire knowing he did as good job representing the residents.
October 4, 2016 at 2:54 PM
That’s wrong. He led motion on racial discrimination act and skyrail
October 4, 2016 at 3:27 PM
Skyrail is a straight up planning issue where the government failed to talk to the local planning authority as they are now doing in Frankston and Kingston. If discrimination is prevailing then every elected person has a duty to bring it forward. All reasonable and within the LGA. Gay marriage is not mentioned in the LGA. Not in my copy anyway.
October 4, 2016 at 3:44 PM
Lipshutz was a conservative windbag time waster extraordinaire, and a cover-up artist, poor propagandist, and a pissweak defender of the indefensible for his favorite causes
October 4, 2016 at 4:22 PM
I get you. You make him sound like a politician. Bit like Delahunty except she is a progressive. (socialist)
October 4, 2016 at 5:33 PM
I get you your a conservative (fascist)
October 4, 2016 at 4:42 PM
The best thing Lipshutz did for Glen Eira was to decide not to stand for re-election in 2016.
October 4, 2016 at 5:24 PM
Agree! Much too late though.
Wish his Acolyte – Hyams – would go too. As he hasn’t resigned, hopefully courtesy of the voters.
October 4, 2016 at 8:56 PM
Mary Delahunty has requested a response to her post today.
Mary has commented on her social media facebook page,about the issues of conflict and transparency and requested responses by all Camden Ward Councillors.
I was not going to respond to Mr. Bunn’s letter in the Leader. However as Mary agreed with that letter and requested a response I felt the need to clarify the issue.
Mary refers to and agrees with the letter by Mr Bunn in the Leader which suggests there are only 2 reasons a business would donate to a candidate. However Mr.Bunn omits a possible 3rd reason-someone is not happy with the existing Councillors and wants to see new Councillors in Glen Eira who can deliver on their commitments and achieve real results and provide value for money for the whole community. A 4th reason could be that both parties are good friends-just a kind gesture with no expectation of a reward.
How far does transparency go? Where do conflicts of interest start?
Mary advises that the value of donations to her are = $0.
However coreflute signs on people’s front yard or fence must have some value.Posters being shown in retail windows must have some value.Is there a potentail conflict?
I also received the same offers and took up the opportunity.
I requested some, and was offered, real estate agent boards.These boards are donated by the board companies to the real estate agents for the volume of work the latter provide.
These “charity” boards gifted to real estate agents also allows the real estate agent to promote their own brand.
The real estate agents are not seeking planning permits.
I do not believe this is a potential conflict nor perception of conflict.I do not believe I have been naïve at all. However if a conflict was to arise, I would excuse myself.
I will disclose all gifts as required under the Act-in the Election Campaign Donation Return.
I have read the Councillor Code of Conduct and am very clear about my duties and responsibilities(if elected) under specifically ( but not exclusively) Clause 4.2 and Clause 6,about integrity and conflict.
Finally the interests of the local residents of Camden are best served by voting onto Council the best candidates. Real estate boards have no relevance to a “review by Council of its planning scheme.” If Mr Bunn wishes to refer to the “current explosion of multi-unit development in Glen Eira” -then maybe he should blame the current Councillors.
I have funded 100% of my out of pocket expenses.
However the matters of transparency and conflict that have been raised ,also go to other areas of a candidate’s campaign and a Councillor’s responsibility.
Clause 4.2 of the Code of Conduct of a Councillor, refers to:” … ävoid conflicts between public duties of a Councillor and personal interests…”
I believe all Councillor candidates should disclose if they are members of any political parties or have ever tried to stand for any government office at State or Federal level.
Local Council is about local resident issues not political party ambitions nor political party policies.
Some people may argue that it is possible to differentiate between political policies that they believe in and voting on local Council issues.
But for the sake of transparency let the voters decide that.
I have no affiliation nor membership to any political party and have never tried for preselection for any political party.I have no ambition for a higher government position.
I will be an independent Councillor(if elected) and will only vote in the best interests of the wider local community.
October 4, 2016 at 9:21 PM
Mr Fayman, I agree with you to the extent that you say that real estate agents are not seeking planning permits. They do however profit from the consequences of planning permits being granted either by council or vcat. They also contact overseas buyers to purchase properties and thus receive their handsome commissions. The real estate industry has also been reported as harrassing residents to sell and even telling some residents that their neighbours have sold and therefore they should not be left with a property that becomes devalued. The relationship between real estate and developers is clear. They feed off each other to the detriment of many people. I would therefore have to agree with Mr Bunn’s letter to the Leader. Whether or not actual cash changes hands, or “donations” are in-kind is irrelevant. By linking yourself to these agents the perception that you could be placing yourself in some very awkward situations is inevitable.
October 4, 2016 at 9:49 PM
Mr Evans,
Firstly let me congratulate you on being transparent and showing your name.
I considered the possibility of conflict- but chose to proceed,as I do not perceive conflict.
The examples you give above talk about real estate agents not any possible conflict.
The boards promote the real estate agent also.
This was a method of showing my face and brand to voters.
I feel to reward back to the agents is needed.
Agents do not create developments.
Agents do not apply for planning permits.
Voters use agents to buy and sell properties.
If there was a conflict I would not vote.
You have to decide if there is a conflict.
Obviously in a democracy you are entitled to your opinion and make the decision about your voting preferences.
I hope you make a good choice.
I have the time,and will make the honour of being a Councillor a 24/7 job.
October 4, 2016 at 10:29 PM
Thank you Mr Fayman for responding to my comment. Perhaps I should elaborate on why I am in agreement with Mr Bunn’s letter. His letter refers to “potential conflict(s) of interest” and, as you say, you do not believe there is a conflict. The real estate industry has much to gain from the development currently taking place in our municipality. They are an integral player in the building industry. The very comment you make of “reward back to agents” is enough to imply a connection and hence a conflict of interest. I distinctly remember this site quoting from an ombudsman’s report that said the perception of a conflict is enough to damage the status and integrity of a council or a councillor. I think I can confidently say that the perception of the majority of people would see your billboards and the names of real estate agents as a “potential conflict of interest”.
FYI, there have been numerous instances over the years of councillors not declaring a perceived conflict of interest. This has done nothing except tarnish the reputation of that councillor in the eyes of many and to exacerbate and create further internal strife.
October 4, 2016 at 11:09 PM
Mr Evans,
I have answered and responded to your comments and responses.
This will be my final response on this matter.
Voters will decide who they wish to vote for and if I will make a good Councillor
You say you agree with mr Bunn. You agree that there has been a multi development explosion- yet you do not complain about the existing Councillors who have allowed this to occur,or the lack of transparency in Council.
If there has been the “explosion”- this has been caused by the planning laws,supply and demand- but not the real estate agents.
They are simply acting as agents for supply and demand.
You perceive a conflict of interest.
You will vote for the candidate who you think will be the best Councillor.
Hopefully all voters will choose the person who will be the best Councillor.
In meantime here is some background of conflict of interest..
CONFLICT OF INTEREST AND LOCAL GOVERNMENT
Councillors and council officers should always be aware of the potential for conflict of interest.
In their roles as elected members and employees, they have been entrusted to govern on behalf of their communities. As such, they must ensure that they do not gain personal benefit from their positions in local government.
If they have personal interests in any of the decisions that they are part of as a government, public body or private enterprise, they must declare their interests and withdraw from the decision-making process. It is therefore very important for councillors and officers to understand and adhere to the legislative requirements.
Conflict of interest requirements apply to council meetings, special committee meetings, audit committees, and Section 223 Committees and Assemblies of Councillors.
Local Government Victoria has three useful guides on conflict of interest for councillors, council staff and council committees.
GOOD GOVERNANCE AND CONFLICT OF INTEREST
The following points are important for good governance.
Individuals must make their own decisions
Councillors and council staff must individually take responsibility for assessing whether they have conflicts of interest in any matter relating to their formal council roles. If the answer is yes, then they must act appropriately. This includes making a proper disclosure and not participating in the relevant decision.
Seeking advice is appropriate
Councillors and council staff should seek assistance or advice from other people when they think they may have a conflict of interest. These can include the mayor, fellow councillors, the Chief Executive Officer or other qualified officers. In some circumstances councillors may also need to obtain their own independent legal advice.
Individuals are accountable
Councillor or officers must ultimately assess whether they have a conflict of interest. Each councillor or officer is accountable for that assessment and the obligation to make the relevant declaration. This is regardless of any assistance or advice they may have received.
Conflict of interest is not a political weapon
Councillors should not use conflict of Interest as a weapon against each other. No councillor can determine that another councillor has a conflict of interest. That is for the individual alone (and a court if that councillor is charged with an alleged breach of the legislation). Using conflict of interest as a political weapon diminishes its importance as a principle of good conduct and natural justice.
CONFLICT OF INTEREST AND COMMUNITY REPRESENTATION
Sometimes councillors will be in a position where they are required to declare a conflict of interest even though their constituents expect them to participate in a decision. For example, a councillor may have a conflict of interest in a local planning decision which the community feels strongly about.
Because conflict of interest can impact on governance and perceptions of governance, it’s important that:
councillors ensure they thoroughly analyse the situation (and seek appropriate advice) to determine what is required by the legislation
Declare their conflicts in accordance with the provisions of the Act and remove themselves from the meeting
councillors clearly explain the situation to their constituents
the council and administration provide support to councillors, when required, to explain conflict of interest requirements to constituents.
Councillors should not, however, hide behind conflict of interest as a way of avoiding a vote on difficult issues in which they don’t have a conflict.
October 4, 2016 at 10:59 PM
So why are you preferencing the liberal party members above the other independent?
October 5, 2016 at 11:15 AM
I met Joel 4 months ago when I decided to nominate for Council.
Joel is enthusiastic knowledgeable and cares about the community
I thought then that he would make a good Councillor .
He has openly admitted his liberal party membership
The voters will decide who will make the best Councillors
October 5, 2016 at 2:38 PM
We need people with life experience on Council, not a juvenile would be politicians trying to set himself up for lifetime on the public purse
October 5, 2016 at 4:19 PM
I am 62
I have life experiences – family,business ,volunteering ,mentoring,community.
Transparent council
Consultative.
Negotiation skills.
Have the time to make being a Councillor my only full time job.
Easy choice I hope.
Youth ticket mixed with experience works.
October 5, 2016 at 8:08 PM
So you’re on a ticket with Silver. Good to know Ian. Independent eh?
October 5, 2016 at 11:54 PM
I want to get elected to Council because I feel I can do a great job for the whole local community.
I am independent .
My preferences are not on same “party’ as me.
the “”youth ticket was Joel’s.
he is the youngest candidate
my experience if I get elected.
His youth if he gets elected
the voters decide preferences.
I choose preferences for 2nd 3rd and 4th etc etc -that is the electoral system rather than first past the post.
Thomas is green
Mary is labour
Rebecca is labour
Dan and Karen tell me they are independent.
I am not on a “ticket” with Joel…I am getting his 2nd preferences.
That is the system we use in elections in this country.
The voters will decide who they believe will best represent them.
Candidates make suggestions for preferences.
Voters do the voting.
Pity this blog site rarely says anything positive or constructive.
It is only negative.
I know that is allowed and expected here.
But I am happy to be open and consultative.
I am happy to listen and learn and get pulled up when I am wrong.
Happy to hear alternative suggestions.
you wish to twist the facts to stir up issues
enjoy yourself
knock yourself out
most people can see straight through your stirrings!
October 6, 2016 at 8:33 AM
correction I note:
joel is not youngest.I was advised Rebecca was 30.
Her candidate statement says she is 27.
Joel is 28.
sorry for my error.
Joel is the 2nd youngest
October 4, 2016 at 9:52 PM
Forget the rubbish. Perception is everything and nearly everyone I have spoken has been concerned about potential conflicts.
October 4, 2016 at 10:11 PM
With real estate agents!!
You are right..forget the rubbish.
Make your choice on the important issues.
October 5, 2016 at 6:52 AM
Cut the crap Ian.
Getting into bed with the Real Estate Agents during an election campaign is not rubbish, it is a big F*cking deal!!!!.
October 5, 2016 at 11:10 AM
I am not getting into bed with anyone.
I am trying to get myself known to Camden ward voters .
This method has been used in other wards and other councils over many years
It is a way for real estate agents to expose their brand.
I will declare all donations
The developers who seek unrealistic applications are the culprits
October 5, 2016 at 1:36 PM
So justification boils down to personal publicity plus every one else does it. Followed by I will declare it and blame others.
Terrific assessment of the situation both before and after exposure. Just the man needed for the job of representing the community and handling conflict of interest issues with acumen and integrity.
Face it Ian you’ve failed at the first hurdle.
October 5, 2016 at 2:27 PM
Yes you are right, (MODERATORS: rest of comment deleted)
October 5, 2016 at 2:57 PM
Have not failed at all.
Have been open transparent and consultative.
Have responded to most comments
I said at very start-I see no conflict.
you do.
others do not.
I have followed the Code of Conduct
I have not hidden that I am running as an independent Candidate.
I am retired and have the time to make Councillor my full time job.
you will choose the candidate that best suits your needs and vision.
Do you live in Camden?
October 5, 2016 at 3:48 PM
Yep
October 5, 2016 at 11:03 PM
Did you seriously just ask someone if they live in Camden? You don’t live here, why would you expect it of anyone else?
October 6, 2016 at 12:06 AM
I am a ratepayer in Glen eira Camden.
Hence I am permitted to stand.
I have said that from the very start of the campaign.
No hidden agenda.
my question was to the person who was so crtical of some candidates of Camden ward if that person was a voter in Camden.
It is fine to stir.
It is fine to be sarcastic.
I just expected transparency by the respective bloggers.
I guess if people want to hide behind false names or anonymous-that is permitted.
I want to learn.
I do not pretend to know everything.
I am happy to listen and accept criticism.
Voters will decide who is the best candidate for them
Who has the time
Who has the experience to handle difficult issues
Who can negotiate with other Councillors. to get results
Who is independent .
October 5, 2016 at 12:09 AM
Mr Fayman. As a disillusioned ratepayer I was not impressed with one councillor excusing herself on the grounds of conf;lict of interest. The strategists on council came to an agreement as to how the historic Frogmore building could be demolished to make way for a home for the Jewish community. Cr Esakoff (who represented that area Rossztown) chose to exclude herself as “some of her relations may be booking in” AND IN DOING SO ENABLED THE MOTION TO BE CARRIED. AND THE HISTORIC BUILDING TO MEET WITH THE BULLDOZER VERY QUICKLY. All citizens of Australia had a right for this building to remain as a monument to our early colonial agricultural history instead of building yet another ugly box like building for elderly Jewish folk exclusively. Yes Planner at conference said it was for one group in the community! Using this criteria can any councillor vote on motions regarding other public infrastructure projects which they may use like roads or parks? Incidentally the Princes Park, opposite Cr Esakoff”s former home always had fortunes spent on it
October 5, 2016 at 11:06 AM
Code of conduct for Councillors requires a Councillor to excuse oneself if in conflict
There were 8 others who voted
Why blame Margaret?
Not her fault .
October 5, 2016 at 11:13 AM
A correction is required here. Only 6 councillors were available to vote on Frogmore. Delahunty and Esakoff both declared varying conflicts of interest. Magee was absent. The vote was 3 for and 3 against. The chairman used his casting vote to make it 4/3. Thus 3 out of 9 councillors decided to abandon the amendment and thus pave the way for the demolition of Frogmore. The councillors involved were Hyams, Lipshutz and Pilling with the latter using his casting vote.
October 5, 2016 at 2:31 PM
pilling’s pay back for being made mayor
October 5, 2016 at 7:54 PM
Hey Ian, will you be fronting up to the Camden candidates forum next Thursday or do you have a “prior commitment”?
October 5, 2016 at 11:41 PM
that is my intent.
Your sarcasm is noted