Those who have followed the stoush reported on the Kapiti Independent News website over the White Ribbon Campaign saga will have observed these comments:

From Dr Kerry Bolton: “There are only four councillors who are not tainted in some manner by bullying, intimidation, false accusations, self-serving manipulation of White Ribbon. They are: Councillors Elliott, David Scott, Gurunathan and Cardiff. ALL the others have shown themselves to be damnable scoundrels, to put it charitably.”

From Cr David Scott: “The mayor, Cr Gaylor and the many spin doctors employed by council are hypocritical. I have served with two mayors and can without doubt say that the current bureaucracy is a spin machine that tries to conveniently forget their misdemeanors.”

In a survey of trust and confidence by the public in different professions published by the NZ Herald last June, local council members rated only 31% — which is even lower than that given to lawyers (43%).  Near the top by comparison, were fire fighters (93%) and ambulance personnel (92%).

What would be the trust and confidence rating for councillors in Kapiti?  At present we rather doubt it would even match that given to used car salesmen.

Some of those who seek election to big city councils may be after prestige and kudos, but you don’t get that in Kapiti.  The salary is only $29,000 for a council member and there are a lot of hours involved for it, not just in meetings and committees, but in reading copious reports prepared by staff.

So why can our councillors not comply with their oath of office:

I declare that I will faithfully and impartially, and according to the best of my skill and judgement, execute and perform in the best interests of the Kapiti Coast District.

These representatives were elected to apply skill and good judgement, exercise impartiality, and show dignity and respect.  If they don’t, and several haven’t, well the ballot box next October may be harsh…