OUTGOING Bendigo councillor James Reade says a large portion of the City of Greater Bendigo’s time is wasted on baseless complaints.
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Cr Reade, who will not seek re-election when his term expires shortly, agreed with former councillor Wayne Gregson’s sentiments over council criticism.
“There’s always a vocal minority and unfortunately they consume a large part of council’s time and energy,” he said.
“The amount of emails and phone calls is frustrating.
“But one of the things I’ve tried to do is not give too much weight to the negative people and surround myself with positive people.”
Cr Reade, elected in 2008 at age 19, said young people should not be dissuaded from getting involved in local politics.
“It’s not just around young people, there needs to be more diversity on the council,” he said.
“The structure of council needs to change so that it’s full time ... it’s set up for retired people, not for people in careers.”
Cr Reade said people needed to “keep reminding themselves how good we have it” in Bendigo.
“There are always opportunities for people to get involved in local government,” he said.
“It’s so easy to sit back and criticise, and a lot of people do that, but those people should put their hands up and get involved with solutions.
“It’s about doing what’s best for the community and improving the community.”